HC Deb 27 October 1993 vol 230 cc686-7W
30. Dr. Godman

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress has been made to date under the terms of the open government initiative; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lang

My Department is taking steps to implement the proposals set out in the Government's recent White Paper, "Open Government" (Cm 2290). In particular, consideration is being given to the arrangements which will be needed to comply with the principles of the code of practice on access to Government information which comes into effect on 4 April 1994.

Meanwhile, thought is being given to the possible early release of blocks of records less than 30 years old; and a review of previously withheld material over 30 years old is being undertaken.