12. To ask the Secretary of State for Justice what recent assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the Government's policy on freedom of information. (240236)

The Government believe the Freedom of Information Act has been effective legislation in improving the scrutiny and accountability of government. They keep their implementation under constant review to ensure its effectiveness.

17. To ask the Secretary of State for Justice when he next plans to review the guidance issued by his Department to public authorities on their duties under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. (240241)

The Ministry of Justice published updated guidance on its website in May 2008 to assist public authorities in handling Freedom of Information requests. This guidance will continue to be reviewed on a regular basis.