FOI/202500461151 · FOI · partially withheld
Correspondence between NHS Fife and the Scottish Government regarding gender workplace regulations: FOI release
Information requested
Could you supply all correspondence sent between NHS Fife and the Scottish Government from the last two months regarding gender/sex and/or workplace regulations and/or facilities, and any minutes/notes from meetings during the same time period?
Response
I enclose a copy of some of the information you requested.
While we are able to release some of the correspondence identified as in scope, some information hasbee n redacted where exemptions apply under FOISA. The information has been redacted under the following exemptions:
Section 38(1)(b) – applied to remove personal data, such as names of officials below Senior Civil Service level and personal contact details, in line with data protection legislation.
Section 36(1) – applied where the content may reflect or reference legal advice which remains confidential.
Section 30(b)(i) – applied where disclosure would, or would be likely to, inhibit the free and frank provision of advice.
Section 30(b)(ii) – applied where disclosure would, or would be likely to, inhibit the free and frank exchange of views between officials on sensitive matters.
Section 30(c) – applied where release would be likely to prejudice the effective conduct of public affairs.
In applying these exemptions, we have considered the public interest test where appropriate. While we recognise that there is a general public interest in openness and transparency, we consider that on balance, the greater public interest lies in maintaining space for officials to communicate candidly on ongoing and sensitive issues, including matters subject to live legal proceedings.
About FOI
The Scottish Government is committed to publishing all information released in response to Freedom of Information requests. View all FOI responses at https://www.gov.scot/foi-responses.
Detected exemption language
While we are able to release some of the correspondence identified as in scope, some information hasbee n redacted where exemptions apply under FOISA. The information has been redacted under the following exemptions: Section 38(1)(b) – applied to remove personal data, such as names of officials below Senior Civil Service level and personal contact details, in line with data protection legislation. Section 36(1) – applied where the content may reflect or reference legal advice which remains confidential. Section 30(b)(i) – applied where disclosure would, or would be likely to, inhibit the free and frank provision of advice. Section 30(b)(ii) – applied where disclosure would, or would be likely to, inhibit the free and frank exchange of views between officials on sensitive matters.