Reuse of Public Sector Information

The Reuse of Public Sector Information Regulations 2005 (PSI) establishes a framework for making the reuse of information held by Public Bodies easier. The Driving Standards Agency has already made a commitment to this principle and was recently reaccredited to the Information Fair Trader Scheme (IFTS) by the Office of Public Sector Information (OPSI).

The PSI Regulations are designed to help release the value held in public sector information and allow the reuse of these assets commercially.

To see a full copy of the Regulations see the link below.

Alternatively,  write to:

Office of Public Sector Information
Admiralty Arch
North Side
The Mall
London
SW1A 2WH

The meaning of reuse

The phrase ‘reuse’ simply means to use information in a way that was originally intended.

Along with the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (FOI), the PSI regulations provide the public with the right of access to information held by public authorities subject to certain legal exemptions.

Although these regulations give the right of access to publicly held information it does not give an automatic right to reuse this information.

When information is given in response to a request under legislation such as FOI it may only be reused with permission, otherwise this would breach copyright. These PSI regulations simply manage that reuse.

The PSI Regulations impose the following main obligations upon a public sector body:

  1. To publish a list of its documents available for reuse. This list is called an Information Asset Register. This information could also be held within the Publication Scheme.
  2. To provide a clear statement on the arrangements for reuse of its information.
  3. To clearly explain any applicable charges for reuse and any licence terms and conditions.
  4. To process applications for reuse in a timely, open and transparent manner and through fair, consistent and non-discrimatory processes.
  5. To establish a quick and easily accessible complaints procedure regarding that reuse.

    For information about the publication scheme please contact DSA’s knowledge and information team on 0115 936 6771 or email