Openness and objectivity underpin the Advisory Council’s work in considering applications for the retention or closure of records. The Advisory Council’s guiding principle is to support information being made public.
That principle will only be set aside when there are clear grounds to do so, based on public or national interest, or sensitivity about personal data. The Advisory Council regularly challenges government departments to provide evidence to justify requests for permission to retain documents or for them to remain closed.
On appointment, Advisory Council members agree to observe the seven principles of public life – selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.