British police will consider whether it is in the public interest to release information about their involvement in the Madeleine McCann inquiry.

Leicestershire Constabulary, which led the British side of the investigation for their counterparts in Portugal, said it must apply the 'public interest test' before agreeing to disclosure.

Linda Dempsey, of the force's data protection department, said: "An initial meeting has now been held and from this we are still in the process of preparing the Public Interest Test regarding the intended response.

"It will be necessary to consult with other agencies to assist in this matter in order for us to give the due consideration that must be given to such a high profile case and the need to balance the needs for disclosure or not."

Anyone is able to access information held by a public authority under the Freedom of Information Act, but the Act contains exemptions to the right of access "to protect legitimate interests and sensitivities", says the Department of Constitutional Affairs.

Ms Dempsey added: "At the heart of this tragic case is an innocent little girl who went missing in May 2007."

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