Request for copy of landlord invoice for Hilary Benn, MP

I can confirm that we hold information relevant to your request. Please find attached to this email a copy of the document. Some information has been redacted and is subject to a Refusal Notice under sections 31 and 38 of the FOIA and in accordance with Section C of IPSA’s Publication Policy.

The date range and total amount of the payments, as well as information on how to pay, have been removed because they are out of scope. The amount published on the website is the monthly payment only. This is in accordance with IPSA’s Publication Policy.

Section 31(1)(a) – law enforcement

This exemption applies where the disclosure of information would or would be likely to prejudice the prevention of crime. IPSA relies on this exemption to withhold the transactional reference. IPSA believes that the disclosure of these details could leave those concerned more vulnerable to financial crime – particularly fraud and electronic crime, especially with the increase in cyber attacks. This exemption is subject to a public interest test. IPSA does not consider that the withholding of this information has a negative impact on the understanding of this claim. We, therefore, find that the public interest in withholding this information outweighs the public interest in disclosure at this time.

Section 38(1)(b) – health and safety

This exemption applies where the disclosure of information would or would be likely to endanger the health and safety of any individual. IPSA relies on this exemption to withhold details which could be used to put at risk the safety of the MP and their staff – in this case, the name of the small supplier and an alternative address.

IPSA believes that withholding this information does not have a negative impact on the public in understanding this claim therefore maintains that the public interest in withholding this information outweighs the public interest in disclosure.