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<p> </p><p> </p><p>This case raises issues of constitutional significance, including
upholding Parliament's intentions for the Freedom of Information regime and the Government's
ability to protect information in the public interest. Litigation initiated by <em>The
Guardian</em> newspaper has taken place over a four year period including hearings
in the Upper Tribunal, the High Court, and the Court of Appeal. Eight government departments
have had to work together on the Government's response, at a total cost of £274,481.16
(exc VAT). These costs encompass all costs billed by the Treasury Solicitor, including
Counsels' fees and disbursements. If we are successful in the next stage of legal
proceedings the Government would seek to recover a substantial proportion of these
costs from the Guardian.</p><p> </p>
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