Changes in the culture of secrecy will only come about if more people try to access information. That's done by a request, in writing, clearly stating that the information is being sought under the Freedom of Information Act.

Give as much information as possible in order to help the officials and cut down on search time - which you can be charged money for. However, if you are not sure what exists, you can request a list of files or documents before making a specific request. Every government department and public body has appointed a trained freedom of information officer, who should help you formulate your request.

The Act says you can be charged search and copying costs; but these can also be waived if some or all of the information would be of particular assistance to the understanding of an issue of national importance. For more expensive searches, those costing more than £40, a deposit is necessary. The cost is £16.50 per hour of search time and 3p per page. Requests for your own personal information cost nothing.

Access can be refused if a request is made without sufficient detail, if it is frivolous or involves a huge amount of work - to the extent that it would interfere with the work of the organisation.

If access has been refused, the requester can ask for a review of the decision to the head of the public body. If it is unsuccessful then the Information Commission can be asked to review the decision. The decision of the Information Commissioner can be appealed to the High Court, but only on a point of law.

Files and documents dating to before the Act came into force are not officially available, unless it is personal information. However, if the information that is available makes little sense without earlier information, then it can be given out.

The Information Commissioner has wide powers. He can review decisions, make his own decisions, review the operation of the Act and investigate procedures and practices of public bodies if he considers that the reasons given for refusal are inadequate.

If his work is hindered or obstructed, then criminal penalties can be levied with fines of up to £1,500 and/or prison sentences of up to six months.