asked Her Majesty's Government:

In what circumstances the Northern Ireland Office charges fees for freedom of information inquiries; how they are calculated; and by whom. [HL4336]

The Northern Ireland Office handles requests under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 in accordance with the guidance published by the Ministry of Justice (MoJ). Officials within the NIO consider all the circumstances of a request and calculate the fees as recommended by the MoJ.

The MoJ guidance can be viewed at the following address: www.justice.gov.uk/guidance/foi-procedural-fees.htm.