Project Sakura: FOI release

Information requested

What ‘public commercial asset’ does this contract notice refer to: https://www.publiccontractsscotland.gov.uk/search/show/search_view.aspx?ID=AUG485383

It specifically says ‘a’ public commercial asset so please tell me which one it relates to.

Additionally, please list the public commercial assets that Project Sakura involves.

Response

The documents released have been attached alongside this letter, and the exemptions applied have been included in annex below.

ANNEX
Section 38(1)(b) - Personal Information
An exemption under section 38(1)(b) of FOISA (personal information) applies to some of the information requested because it is personal data of a third party, eg names/contact details of individuals, and disclosing it would contravene the data protection principles in Article 5(1) of the General Data Protection Regulation and in section 34(1) of the Data Protection Act 2018. This exemption is not subject to the ‘public interest test’, so we are not required to consider if the public interest in disclosing the information outweighs the public interest in applying the exemption.

Section 30(c) – Substantial prejudice to the effective conduct of public affairs
An exemption under section 30(c) of FOISA (prejudice to effective conduct of public affairs) applies to some of the information requested. It is essential for officials to be able to communicate often in confidence on a range of issues. This exemption is subject to the ‘public interest test’. Therefore, taking account of all the circumstances of this case, we have considered if the public interest in disclosing the information outweighs the public interest in applying the exemption. We have found that, on balance, the public interest lies in favour of upholding the exemption. We recognise that there is a public interest in disclosing information as part of open, transparent and accountable government, and to inform public debate. However, there is a greater public interest in allowing Ministers and officials a private space within which to communicate the process of exploring and refining the Government’s position on Project Sakura. This private space is essential to enable all options to be properly considered, so that good decisions can be taken based on fully informed advice and evidence. Premature disclosure is likely to undermine the full and frank discussion of issues, which in turn will undermine the quality of the decision making process, which would not be in the public interest.

About FOI

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FOI 202300375166 - Information Released - Supporting Documents

File type

29 page PDF

File size

2.1 MB