During the past 10 ten years there has been a major difference in the way democracy has functioned in the UK: The Freedom of Information Act.

It provides an enforceable right to access recorded information held by around 100,000 public sector organisations.

The inquiry set up by the Government is due to report in the coming months and it is not hard to imagine the changes preferred by many in central and local government.

There is not exactly joy in Whitehall when details of MPs' expenses are revealed or the number of deaths related to cuts in benefit.

There is not euphoria in the town hall when local citizens become aware of payments to the chief executive or the vast property portfolio held by the council.

As well as high-profile national, international and local stories that have emerged as a result, it is important to recognise that many requests have led to important benefits for individuals and local communities.

In my work assisting people battling for their rights against local bureaucracy, I have used our right to obtain information on, for example, discretionary housing payments, child protection orders, healthcare and bedroom tax.

In the last week I have been made aware of information on housing benefits, peppercorn rents for council properties, domiciliary care, fostering services, bullying, and empty homes.

Freedom of Information legislation must not be restricted or weakened as it is a vital requirement for protecting our rights.

Whether it is national government or Brighton and Hove City Council, they must not prevent access to information that belongs to the people.

  • Steve Parry is a community activist.