Commission

Terms for commissioned research

Independence

We never change our findings to suit the client.

We report what the evidence shows, including findings the client may not want.

We may decline any commission.

This includes work for election campaigns, lobbying material, and questions about private individuals who hold no public role.

Every figure and claim is sourced to a public record or a named source.

All sources are listed in the report.

The quote fixes the price, the scope and the delivery date.

Work starts once payment is received. Payment is by card through Stripe.

Research reports and Investigations include one round of amendments, to fix errors or clarify wording within the agreed scope.

New questions need a new quote.

We deliver by email, on or before the agreed date.

If we will miss the date, we tell you as soon as we know.

You get a full refund if you cancel before work starts.

After that, refunds are by agreement.

The report is for the client’s own use. Publishing it needs our written agreement.

If Open Govt ever publishes commissioned research, it is labelled “Commissioned by” with the client’s name.

We keep your request and your identity confidential, unless the research is published by agreement.

We use your details only to handle your request.

Our privacy policy explains how we look after personal information.

If Open Govt is not VAT registered, no VAT is added.

Last updated: 24 October 2026