Decision notice IC-293748-T2L6

The complainant requested information relating to a contract. Brighton & Hove City Council (the “Council”) confirmed that the cost of complying with the request would exceed the appropriate limit, and as such it was relying on section 12 (cost limit) of the FOIA to refuse the request. The Commissioner’s decision is that the Council is entitled to rely on section 12(1) (cost limit) of the FOIA to refuse to provide the requested information. However, he finds that the Council failed to provide reasonable advice and assistance and therefore did not meet its obligations under section 16(1) of the FOIA. The Commissioner requires the Council to provide the complainant with advice and assistance to help them submit a request falling within the appropriate limit.