We can charge for providing information where we estimate the cost to be more than £450. For the purpose of this estimate, we take account only of the costs we reasonably expect to incur in:
- Determining whether we hold the information
- Locating the information, or a document which may contain the information
- Retrieving the information, or a document which may contain the information
- Extracting the information from a document containing it.
Staff time is estimated at a rate of £25 per person per hour. If we estimate the cost to be more than £450 we will inform you of this and advise you on how to refine the request to reduce the cost.
If we estimate the cost to be below £450 we may charge for disbursements such as photocopying and postage. We will always advise you of this beforehand.
Charging for information
Material published on our website will be provided free of charge.
Charges may be made for disbursements incurred such as:
- Photocopying
- Postage and packaging
- The costs directly incurred as a result of viewing the information.
Charges may also be made where they are legally authorised.
If a charge is to be made, confirmation of the payment due will be given before the information is provided. Payment may be requested prior to provision of the information.