Mr Mustard has to complain to the Information Commissioner when Barnet Council fail to answer his questions (yes, the very same Information Commissioner that rejected Barnet Council's complaint about Mr Mustard - The ICO is scrupulous in its independence and looks at each complaint on its merits).
Last year Barnet Council had to be monitored by the ICO because of poor performance in answering Freedom of Information questions. You would think therefore that any sensible council would thereafter rush into action when the ICO calls. Not so, this is Barnet.
Last night Mr Mustard noticed that one of his complaints had stalled and so he gave the ICO a nudge. Less than 24 hours later they replied as below email. If only Barnet Council moved at that pace.
From : casework@ico.gsi.gov.uk
15 December 2011
Reference FS50410112
Dear Mr Mustard
Thank you for your email.
Unfortunately there has been a delay in the response from the council which I am chasing.
Yours sincerely
J*** G*********
Case Officer
If only Barnet Council moved at that pace. Maybe the council actually needs more officers to handle FOI requests. They will only increase until the council becomes a sensible and boring council. As long as One Barnet goes on the questions will just keep coming from every quarter.
Yours frugally
This is not a party issue. Roger T. always gives the example of true-blue Windsor and Maidenhead Council, which publishes everything by default, that is unless there is valid reason not to.
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