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Electoral Register Form - The Full story about the Edited version
Yampy has just received a reminder that we haven't filled in our Register of Electors form, and it has also reminded
us to say a few words about the relevance of the box to the right of
'First Forename and Initial'.
Two versions of the register are now held; 'full' and 'edited'. Only certain people (eg. police and credit checking
agencies) can see the 'full' one, and even then it can only be used for certain purposes. The 'edited' version, on the
other hand, can be bought by anybody and used for any purpose. This edited copy is the same as the full one
except it omits people who have marked the box mentioned above with an X.
Yes we know - it doesn't explain this
on the front except for a see note overleaf (only smaller than that!). This is because, except
perhaps for the
one time in 18 years that a child becomes eligible to vote, we all tend to just sign the form and return it after a
cursory glance at the names printed.
Sneaky isn't it? It means that we have to opt out of giving our private details out to anyone who pays a fee, rather than
opt in. Which is strange, because if it was the other way round, who would choose to opt in? Nobody - but then
the revenue opportunity would be lost for the authorities and they would have to make do with the tax, National Insurance,
VAT and Council Tax they already get from us.
We have certainly put a cross in this box. If you have concerns but have perhaps already completed the form, the
telephone helpline is 01384 814740.
Please make sure that the form is returned; if you are absent from the Electoral Register you may find it difficult to
obtain credit, and there's a fine of up to £1000 for failing to comply or giving false information.
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