Written question asked by Oliver Heald (Conservative) on Tuesday, 31 October 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 2 November 2006. It was answered by Vera Baird (Labour) on Tuesday, 7 November 2006 on behalf of the Department for Constitutional Affairs.

Freedom of Information

Question: To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs if she will designate Network Rail a public authority for the purposes of the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

Answer: We are still considering the impact of the Freedom of Information Act 2000 on public bodies covered by the legislation and have not yet reached a view on the use of the power contained in section 5 of the Act which provides for extension of coverage.However, Network Rail is required to provide information to the Office of Rail Regulation about its public functions. The Office of Rail Regulation is subject to the Act, and the hon. Member will be free to approach them.

Secondary information