UK Export Finance EIR Commercial Interests Exemption Decision

UK Export Finance received a freedom of information request under the Environmental Information Regulations for details about project financing. The agency disclosed some information, stated it did not hold other information, and withheld the remainder citing regulation 12(5)(a), which protects commercial interests from disclosure. The ICO investigated and found that UK Export Finance correctly applied this exemption to the withheld information.\n\nFor public bodies and requesters, this decision reinforces that commercial confidentiality remains a valid basis for withholding environmental information under EIR. Public authorities handling similar requests should ensure they can demonstrate that disclosure would prejudice the commercial interests of the party concerned before applying this exemption. Requesters should be aware that commercial sensitivity claims by government agencies may be upheld if properly justified.