Government consults on datasets

The government has launched a consultation to clarify what is expected of public authorities which are required to publish datasets for re-use and in a re-useable format. The requirements stem from the amendments made to the Freedom of Information Act, and are expected to come into force in April 2013.

The new draft Code of Practice (datasets) seeks out, for example, to explain what is meant by “an electronic form which is capable of re-use” or a “re-usable format” for the purposes of the Act.

The online consultation tool on data.gov.uk provides responders with an opportunity to have a conversation with everyone as to whether a particular paragraph, sentence or word in the draft code could be improved upon. Comments are sought by 10 January.