When I demanded to see the minutes of a meeting at which a petition I had submitted to the council containing 35 names, to have a section of embankment fenced off due to nuisance and antisocial behaviour had been rejected, my request was denied on the grounds that "its disclosure would prejudice the effective conduct of public affairs"

So much for the FOI Act.  The trouble with councils like many other unelected public bodies is that they are accountable to nobody!

At least you can tell an MP or councillor you won't be voting for him again!

I believe you can appeal against that decision.

This should help..

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/RightsAndResponsibilities/Yourrights/DG_10013518