Islanders asked for views on new FOI law

Jersey's government is also considering a new digital FOI portal to simplify things for the public

People in Jersey are being asked for their views how far a new Freedom of Information (FOI) law should go, by the island's government.

The Government of Jersey published an interim report on Monday, detailing the work it had been doing to review the law, and is now asking the public and local organisations for their input.

Assistant Chief Minister Deputy Malcolm Ferey said the current law had improved openness but had "faced criticism for not covering all public bodies".

Ferey said an updated law should promote "a strong 'right to know' across the public sector", but also keep costs in mind.

The review had already identified several areas for improvement, a spokesperson said.

These included strengthening transparency, improving efficiency, and making more information available to Islanders without the need for a formal FOI request.

The government said it was also considering a new digital FOI portal to simplify things for the public and make things more efficient.

The consultation is open until Monday 10 November.