|
ICO guidance issued to political parties |
Privacy rules when promoting themselves to voters outlined.
Updated guidance has been issued by the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) for political parties and candidates to understand important privacy rules when promoting themselves to voters.
The updated guidance covers a range of communication techniques including direct mail, emails, text messages, phone calling and automated phone calls and applies to direct marketing campaign, such as encouraging individuals to vote for a particular party or candidate, appeals for funds and support for a campaign.
Previous election campaigns have seen some parties flouting the rules, resulting in hundreds of thousands of people being unlawfully targeted.
The ICO has previously taken action against Labour, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats and SNP for invading people’s privacy.
Information Commissioner Christopher Graham said: "For good reason, there are strict rules concerning the way in which political parties and candidates can contact unsuspecting members of the public with campaign and promotional materials."
"This guidance will help political parties respect people’s privacy rights."
Further information:
ICO
|
