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Original poster

Where are MPs getting my name?

15 replies

Wantarefund · 07/12/2019 13:04

I know this is probably a stupid question so please be kind but where are MPs getting my name?

Obviously I’m used to the junk mail type stuff but I’m now getting actual letters address to me with my name on.

OP posts:
GingleJangleScarecrow · 07/12/2019 13:05

Probably the electoral roll - are you registered to vote?

electricwhisk · 07/12/2019 13:09

the electoral roll

Witchend · 07/12/2019 13:10

Electoral roll.
Apparently they're allowed to.

Original poster
Wantarefund · 07/12/2019 13:10

Yes I’m on there. It seems strange to me that they’re allowed to just take your name and ‘write’ to you. Surely no one else would be allowed to do that due to GDPR etc or is the electoral roll open to everyone?

OP posts:
hidinginthenightgarden · 07/12/2019 13:12

You registered to vote so they are contacting you to persuade you to vote for them. If they were using it for another purpose then it wouldn't be allowed.

AuntieMaggie · 07/12/2019 13:12

I was wondering the same thing - surely if you've opted out of the open register they shouldn't be able to use your data for this purpose?!

sparkylove · 07/12/2019 13:12

Might be the open register bit of the electoral roll? I had to tick a box to be excluded, otherwise they sell your name and address on and you end up with a load of junk mail

Original poster
Wantarefund · 07/12/2019 13:14

I’ll need to try and find out which one I’m on then. So if I opt out of the open one it should stop? Was always under the impression to get a mortgage it helped to be on the electoral roll so would this need to be the full one? Thanks

OP posts:
WhiskyTangoFoxtrot · 07/12/2019 13:17

Whichever version you are on, candidates are permitted access.

So are a few other organisations: police, security services etc

Otherwise people have to buy the edited version (which you have consented on the form to remain on)

fromthefloorboardsup · 07/12/2019 13:18

I'm not on the open register but I get it. I think it's fine under GDPR as it'll count as legitimate use during election time.

leghairdontcare · 07/12/2019 13:20

For credit purposes it doesn't matter which version of the electoral roll you're on.

Candidates are allowed access to the full version and get Freepost from royal mail to send election information.

Original poster
Wantarefund · 07/12/2019 13:21

It’s bloody annoying but doesn’t look like there’s any way to stop it then! Crafty buggers made it look like ‘proper mail’ as well.

OP posts:
ForalltheSaints · 07/12/2019 13:22

Electoral roll. I think I have had three from the Lib Dems and one from the Tories. Not only are they giving business to the Royal Mail, but I have to shred anything with an address on.

adaline · 07/12/2019 13:24

Electoral candidates can get your name even if you're not on the open register.

Spitsandspots · 07/12/2019 13:46

Crafty buggers made it look like ‘proper mail’ as well

It annoys me every time I open one. If it was more obvious I would shove it straight in the recycling.
Weirdly I am getting them address to me but DH isn’t getting any.

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