Briefing notes for Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Gaelic meeting with Scottish Enterprise: FOI release

Information requested

Any introductory briefing notes sent/provided to Kate Forbes in her capacity as Cabinet Secretary for Economy Energy on the following topics:

• Scottish Enterprise
• Business Gateway
• Scottish Development International
• Scotland Europa
• Scotland Can
• The Scottish Business Support Partnership

Response

We have interpreted your ask as any introductory briefing notes sent/provided to Kate Forbes in her capacity as Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Gaelic. I enclose a copy of the briefing for the introductory meeting between Scottish Enterprise and Ms Forbes. This is the only introductory briefing within the scope of your request.

Exemptions under sections 29(1)(a), 30(b)(i) and 38(1)(b) of FOISA applies to some of the information you have requested.

Section 29(1)(a) - formulation or development of Scottish Government policy

This exemption is subject to the 'public interest test'. Therefore, taking account of all the circumstances of this case, we have considered if the public interest in disclosing the information outweighs the public interest in applying the exemption. We have found that, on balance, the public interest lies in favour of upholding the exemption. We recognise that there is a public interest in disclosing information as part of open, transparent and accountable government, and to inform public debate. However, there is a greater public interest in high quality policy and decision-making, and in the properly considered implementation and development of policies and decisions. This means that Ministers and officials need to be able to consider all available options and to debate those rigorously, to fully understand their possible implications.

Section 30(b)(i) - information that would, or would be likely to, inhibit substantially the free and frank provision of advice

This exemption is subject to the 'public interest test'. Therefore, taking account of all the circumstances of this case, we have considered if the public interest in disclosing the information outweighs the public interest in applying the exemption. We have found that, on balance, the public interest lies in favour of upholding the exemption. We recognise that there is a public interest in disclosing information as part of open, transparent and accountable government, and to inform public debate. However, there is a greater public interest in allowing a private space within which officials can provide full and frank advice to Ministers, as part of the process of exploring and refining the Government’s position until the Government as a whole can adopt a decision.

Section 38(1)(b) - personal data of third parties e.g. names, email addresses and phone numbers

This exemption is not subject to the 'public interest test', so we are not required to consider if the public interest in disclosing the information outweighs the public interest in applying the exemption.

About FOI

The Scottish Government is committed to publishing all information released in response to Freedom of Information requests. View all FOI responses at https://www.gov.scot/foi-responses.

FOI - 202400433579 - Information Released - Briefing

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