Journalists in the United Kingdom have become increasingly frustrated with roadblocks in acquiring public records, according to a study published in Journalism Practice. 

 Jingrong Tong of the University of Sheffield interviewed 31 journalists about their struggles to obtain government records, pointing to several key issues: lack of resources at government agencies, the control of information through public information officers, and deteriorating relations between the press and government. 

The study shows that while the Freedom of Information Act 2000 was intended to enhance transparency, journalists are still facing significant barriers in obtaining essential information. Journalists reported that government officials often delay or deny access to records, sometimes using bureaucratic red tape or political pressure to block requests. 

The study points to a number of contributing factors, including governments’ desire to avoid embarrassment, strained relationships with the media, and a political climate of antagonism. Additionally, budget cuts have put significant pressure on both central and local governments, limiting their ability to process information requests efficiently. 

Tong also notes that the role of the UK’s commercial press in shaping political narratives is significant, such as media outlets owned by Rupert Murdoch influencing debate around Brexit. The study notes that increasingly restricted information access is a subtle form of control, which has the potential to suppress critical voices and align media narratives with government agendas. 

Tong warns that continued restrictions on information access could have dire consequences for democracy, leading to increased government secrecy and a shift toward a propaganda regime.  

The findings mirror a lot of research in the United States, as well – frustrations with public record laws are universal. A 2017 study by Brechner FOI Project Director David Cuillier found journalists and other requesters frustrated by delays, denials and copy fees. Another study, published in 2024, found frustration among requesters who seek records in the public interest.

Posted: April 10, 2025
Category: Brechner News
Tagged as: Brechner Freedom of Information Project, FOI, Government Transparency, open records laws