ICO Decision: Core Education Trust request vexatious

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) has issued a decision notice finding that a request made to Core Education Trust was vexatious under the Freedom of Information Act. Specifically, the ICO upheld the Trust's decision to refuse the request, determining that it was not obliged to comply. This decision means the Trust does not need to take any further steps regarding the complainant's request.

This ruling has practical implications for educational institutions and other public bodies that receive information requests. It clarifies that such bodies may refuse requests deemed vexatious, thereby avoiding the obligation to comply. Compliance officers should note that the ICO has the authority to make such determinations, and the decision reinforces the grounds on which a request can be legitimately refused.