"Free citizens must be able to hold big institutions and powerful individuals to account - and not only the government," he said.

Under further changes, the Information Commissioner, who regulates the FoI and Data Protection Acts, will be given "more freedom" on "day-to-day" decisions, the government said today. Changes proposed also include the removal of the requirement that the Commissioner seeks the Secretary of State's consent in relation to the appointment of staff, their pay and pensions.

Christopher Graham, the Information Commissioner, said in response that he welcomed all of the changes. "Extending the coverage of the Act to a number of additional organisations will allow for even greater transparency, and a more independent ICO is essential to make sure information rights continue to be upheld," he said.