Volte-face on FoI reform?

The Government has announced an extension to its consultation on the proposed reform to the freedom of information regime. This has been read by some as a welcome capitulation to the demands of the press and media lobby that has fought the changes (1,2), and comes only days after Lord Falconer delivered a strong defence of the Government's erstwhile position. The new consultation invites comment on the general principle underlying the proposed changes, whereas consultees were originally asked to comment only on technical details of how the changes would be instituted. Notably, the 12 week consultation period will run right up to the expected date of handing over of the Prime Ministership from Tony Blair to Gordon Brown. This is significant, as the latter is considered by some to be more accepting of the public's 'right to know'.