Freedom of information applicants are not screened, the island’s politicians have been told.

Under the Freedom of Information Act, anyone can submit a request to public authorities, although there are circumstances set out in which the information can be withheld.

In the House of Keys, Julie Edge (Onchan) asked how email addresses were verified.

But Policy and Reform Minister Chris Thomas said: ’It is not actually within the spirit of the act to screen requesters, nor is it to assume a motive.

’Freedom of information is a public right to information and, as such, a disclosure under the act is in any case a disclosure to the world.

’Therefore, I do not think it is really an issue that has been identified nor is it practicable to refuse requests of those using suspected false names or pseudonyms.’

He added: ’If there is a public appetite for the information, a request will inevitably be submitted.’