A scene from the television advert

The Freedom of Information Commission in Scotland is launching a television advertising campaign.

It is also publishing a 48-page booklet in plain English outlining how to obtain information.

The commission wants to encourage people to find out about "bread and butter" issues ranging from bullying in schools to hospital ward cleanliness.

Public authorities have 20 days in which to reply to inquiries, or explain why they cannot provide the information.

Cover-up fears

Most of the bodies insist they have been preparing to comply with the Freedom of Information Act.

But some concern has been expressed that they may not be aware of how much information they are required to supply.

It includes, for instance, notes taken at meetings and internal emails.

Some critics fear officials and politicians may try to take decisions without minutes.

The commission, however, believes there are enough checks in place to prevent it.

Mr Dunion is encouraging people to use the new law

Information Commissioner Kevin Dunion said research has shown that only about 30% of people in Scotland have heard of the act.

The Right to Know campaign would seek to address the shortfall, he said.

He added: "The purpose of the legislation is to allow anybody, anywhere to ask Scotland's public authorities for information."

It is Mr Dunion's job to enforce the public's rights and adjudicate in contentious cases.

The act applies to the Scottish Executive and its agencies, local authorities, NHS Scotland, schools, colleges and universities, the police and the Scottish Parliament. Other bodies can be added to the list in the future.