8 October 2009

Dear Mr Carruthers,

Freedom of Information Act Request - New Ombudsman

Thank you for your request of 6 October regarding copies of paperwork provided by the Department to the CLG Select Committee regarding the hearing on 12 October to consider the appointment of the new Ombudsman. Your request was received by Communities and Local Government on 6 October.

I am considering your request under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and you may expect to receive a reply by 3 November.

In some circumstances a fee may be chargeable and if that is the case, I will let you know the likely charges before proceeding.

If you have any queries regarding this letter, please contact me. Remember to quote the reference number above in any future communications.

I am enclosing with this letter a copy of our Access to Information leaflet which explains how the Department handles formal requests for information. I hope you will find it useful.

Yours faithfully,

Mark Coram