19 February 2009

Dear Jo Simons,

FOI request - provision of FOI tracking system service to the Government Equalities Office (GEO)

I am writing in response to your request for information of 31 January 2009:

1. Does DCLG provide a FOI tracking system to the GEO?

2. If not, at what point did DCLG cease providing such a service?

3. Please provide a copy of all records held relating to the GEO within the FOI tracking system, identifying the date requests were made, date answered and subject of the request.

Your request has been considered under the Freedom of Information Act 2000.

I can confirm that Communities and Local Government does hold the information that you have requested. The answers to your questions are:

1. No.

2. DCLG has never provided this service to the GEO.

3. Not applicable.

The Government Equalities Office shares its premises with DCLG, which provides it with various support services. However, an FOI tracking system has never been one of them.

Communities and Local Government as an organisation aims to be as helpful as possible in the way it deals with requests for information under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 and the Environmental Information Regulations 2004. If, however, you are not satisfied with the way in which your request has been handled or the outcome, you may request an internal review within two calendar months of the date of this letter. Information about the Department's review procedures and how to apply for an internal review of your case is contained in the enclosed leaflet. This also explains your right to apply directly to the Information Commissioner for a decision in the event that you remain dissatisfied following the authority's review.

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

Yours sincerely,

FOI Advice Team