His bid to extend the FOI to private companies, if successful, will also benefit Carshalton and Wallington residents by making private train companies more transparent. This extension would give local residents a voice to make a significant impact on their own train services.
Tom said, “Freedom of Information legislation is critical. It holds our central and local government officials accountable, and provides an opportunity for the public to know exactly where their tax money is going. It makes the government serve in the best interest of the public. I will continue to fight for the Freedom of Information Act to be strengthened so democracy can flourish.”
The Freedom of Information Act was created in 2000 to ensure that the public has access to the activities of public authorities. Members of the public are allowed to request information regarding these public authorities. The current Government is afraid the FOI will cause a breach of safety and confidentiality. It is working to make public access to information more difficult. Tom Brake believes strengthening the FOI will create a stronger relationship between the government and the public; one that is built on trust.