How to Request AI Usage Records from UK Public Bodies

Introduction

In a landmark move for transparency, UK regulators have confirmed that government departments and other public bodies must now consider requests for information about content produced using artificial intelligence. This decision follows a successful Freedom of Information request by New Scientist for the release of a minister's ChatGPT interaction logs. If you want to exercise your right to see how AI is being used in decision-making, communications, or other processes, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the process.

What You Need

• Your subject of interest: Identify the specific government department, agency, or public body you want to query.
• Information about your request: A clear idea of what AI-related information you’re seeking (e.g., logs of AI-generated content, details of AI systems used).
• Your contact details: For correspondence (email is fastest).
• Optional: Reference to the New Scientist precedent – you can cite this successful case to strengthen your request.

Step 1 – Identify the Right Public Body

First, determine which UK government department or public body is most likely to hold the AI information you want. For instance, if you’re interested in AI in health policy, target the Department of Health and Social Care. If you suspect a minister’s office used ChatGPT, you could approach that minister’s department. Use official websites or contact directories to confirm the correct entity.

Step 2 – Draft Your Request Clearly

Write a concise, formal request. State that you’re requesting disclosure of information under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (or the Environmental Information Regulations if applicable). Specify that you want information about AI-generated content, including (but not limited to) logs, transcripts, or summaries of AI interactions. Example: “Please provide all records of AI‑generated text used in communications from [month/year], including ChatGPT interaction logs.” Mention the New Scientist case as evidence that such requests are valid and must be considered.

Step 3 – Submit Your Request

Send your request via email or through the body’s official FOI request portal (many have online forms). Include your name and contact details. Many organisations have a dedicated FOI officer. Keep a copy of your submission and note the date for tracking purposes.

Step 4 – Await Initial Acknowledgment

By law, public bodies must respond within 20 working days (extendable only in limited circumstances). They will acknowledge receipt and may ask for clarification if your request is vague. Respond promptly if they do. If you don’t hear back within 20 days, follow up politely.

Step 5 – Evaluate the Response

The body may either disclose the information, issue a partial disclosure (redacting sensitive parts), or refuse the request citing exemptions (e.g., national security, commercial interests). Assess their reasoning against the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) guidance. If they refuse, they must explain which exemption applies and why the public interest does not favour disclosure.

Step 6 – Escalate If Necessary

If you’re unhappy with the response, you can request an internal review – usually within 40 working days. If the review still rejects your request, you can complain to the ICO. The ICO has powers to order disclosure. The New Scientist precedent shows regulators will support reasonable requests about AI usage.

Tips for Success

• Be specific – Vague requests like “all AI‑related information” are more likely to be rejected. Focus on a particular tool (e.g., ChatGPT) or a defined time period.
• Cite the precedent – Mentioning the successful New Scientist request for a minister's ChatGPT logs can signal that your request is legally valid and has public interest.
• Keep records – Save all correspondence. If you escalate, timelines and evidence matter.
• Use the ICO’s guidance – Familiarise yourself with exemptions; this helps you challenge weak refusals.
• Consider the public interest test – In your request, explain why disclosure serves the public interest (e.g., accountability, trust in government, ethical AI use).
• Be patient – FOI processes can take weeks or months, especially for novel requests. Persistence pays off.

With these steps, you can effectively exercise your right to see how UK public bodies are using AI. The new rules empower citizens to hold government accountable for its increasingly automated decision-making.