My longstanding interest in public policy and data is piqued this morning by this bizarre phrase used by DVLA in their otherwise admirable new car tax service as they seek to gather voluntary data:
‘The email address and/or mobile number supplied by you may also be used to ask about your experience of using this service, or to gain further insight around other motoring services.
The DVLA does not share mobile phone numbers or email addresses with any outside organisations.
Not quite sure this would pass a plain English or comprehensibility test. The submission of my email and telephone number are entirely voluntary. But does it mean ‘tick to be sent information about what we shall do with your information’ or ‘tick to be sent marketing material by DVLA’ (as is customary with most online or postal services). What is ‘gain further insight around other motoring services’ is ‘ or is it something genuinely useful so that they have a number to ring if my car is found smashed up?
When gathering information as a state agency, even on a voluntary basis as a you need to be crystal clear about what will happen to it. A link to a page with details would be helpful.
William Perrin
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