A8.75 Consulting the Minister regarding policy information

1. In requests for policy related information, the NZIS should consult the Minister about whether or not to release the information:
   1. if it is a marginal case, or
   2. if the information is sensitive, or
   3. if the information contains advice to the Minister from the NZIS.
2. In such cases, a submission should be sent to the Minister, which:
   1. details the information requested, and
   2. advises that the NZIS proposes to (as appropriate):
      • release, or
      • conditional release, or
      • withhold the information, and
   3. quotes the relevant reference in the Official Information Act.
3. If the Minister's view is different from the NZIS, the request should be transferred to the Minister. This is the only way the NZIS can meet its constitutional duty to the Minister and its obligations under the Official Information Act.

Effective 26/07/1999