Forum Topic

Open Register

"Hounslow Council is writing to everyone in the borough from Monday 4 August, explaining the change to the electoral registration system; letting people know if they’ve been automatically transferred to the new register or if they need to take any action".What the article on Brentford TW8 doesn't state is that there are now two registers - a new one is "the Open Register".  I have apparently been registered on the Open register which is sold to businesses, individuals and charities allowing them to send direct mail.  I don't want masses of junk mail coming through my door - I find it wasteful and environmentally unfriendly.  So I have opted out.  I would suggest that if people don't want their personal details on an open register that is sold to businesses, they check the details in the letter which they will shortly receive and follow instructions to opt out.

Matthew Taylor ● 4197d2 Comments

There is nothing new about this, Matthew. There have been open and non-open registers for years. Some people who have long opted to be left off the open register are finding themselves inexplicably on the open one with the new system. You just have to contact the council to rectify the problem but do check.

Susan Kelly ● 4196d

On the last paragraph of my letter it states“Your details are not on the open register because you previously asked for them to be removed. If you wish to be added to the open register please contact us by post or email providing your full name and address and stating that you want to be added to the open register.”You can find more information about both registers and how they may be used atwww.gov.uk/yourvotematters

Paul Allen ● 4197d