§ The Earl of Northeskasked her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are satisfied that local authority information technology systems are properly prepared, in terms of adequate financial provision and appropriate document retrieval systems, to comply with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 when it comes into force on 1 January 2005. [HL4657]
§ The Minister of State, Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (Lord Rooker)Local authorities take their responsibilities in this area seriously, and are currently completing their annual statements on progress towards e-government targets, which includes a question on the Freedom of Information Act. Further information will be available in the New Year.