Cherishing books - Access we can’t take for granted

AS those who quietly but assiduously undermine the Freedom of Information Act understand and fear, information is real power. Why else have the workings of NAMA been placed outside the remit of the act?

If you have any doubt about how empowering information is ask one of the many MPs who lost their seat in Thursday’s British election because their loose understanding of what can be regarded as a legitimate expense was revealed and it enraged their constituents.

It was this informed anger that led to the highest voter turnout – an estimated 65% – since 1997. Ordinary people had information that reflected poorly on their political system and they responded accordingly. They forced change that might not have come had the voters been less informed.