Census can't cope

THERE has been a new development concerning the census and boaters without a post code, who rely on a friend's or relative's  address for administration purposes.

Now I'm receiving reports that some of these 'Mailbox Minders' are getting visits from the 'Census Police' claiming they have completed their Census Forms incorrectly, writes Ralph Freeman.

Broken Data Protection Act

'Clearly there are other person(s) living at this address which don't appear on your form,' seems to be opening line for the prosecution. I'm wondering just where the information regarding the mailbox activity of that person has come from. Surely someone has broken the Data Protection Act?

I completed my Census Form with the address  'Narrowboat Grey Nomad, English Canal System'. I most certainly do not live at 'Mailbox Bob's' address or Aston Marina, so what other option is there?

Cannot cope

I just wonder if the Census computer cannot cope with this lack of postcode and has spat out infringement notices to it's 'agents'?

Maybe George Orwell was along the right lines with his book 1984, but got the date wrong by 27 years? Big Brother is watching you!