The Cabinet Office had argued that it should not have to hand over irrelevant material, but the inquiry chair, Baroness Hallett, argued that she should have the authority to decide what is relevant.

The government has accepted the ruling, and will work towards handing over the material requested by next week.

The court's ruling strengthens the authority of the inquiry and its ability to demand evidence, and allows inquiries to "fish" for documents.

However, the public may not get to see the documents in full, as the inquiry could apply its own redactions or decide against making them public.