§ Matthew TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on what date his Department established a working group of officials to prepare his Department for the implementation of the Freedom of Information Act 2000; and on what dates this committee has met since it was set up. [14774]
§ Dr. John ReidI refer the hon. Member to the statement made by my noble and learned Friend the Lord Chancellor on 13 November.
Work to implement the Freedom of Information Act is being overseen by the Department's senior management group, which receives regular progress reports. A task force of officials has been set up to assist with the implementation and compliance. Since June, presentations 973W to senior staff and freedom of information seminars have been given throughout the Department and an information management training programme is planned for next year.