Question about V5 - previous owner details

[AOK]

Does anyone know the reason why V5C Registration Certificates show the name and address of the most recent previous keeper?

In an age of severe data-protection, isn't it slightly strange that the DVLA gives this information by default to a complete stranger when you sell your car?

Just curious if there's a justifiable reason which I'm not seeing

[Mandat]

I don't know the historical reason why the RK's details are shown on the V5, and would be interested to learn the reasoning for this as well.

I would have though that at the very least knowing the previous RK's details would be useful in establishing the cars provenance.

Do you think that RK's details should be kept secret, and if so, for what reason?

[TooMany2cvs]

Mandat said:

Do you think that RK's details should be kept secret, and if so, for what reason?

Just wait until he finds out that a fiver will buy you the complete list of all previous RKs for a vehicle you're keeper of...

Simple answer: RK details are semi-public info. If you don't want them to be, find a contact address you are happy to use as semi-public contact info.

[AOK]

Mandat said:

Do you think that RK's details should be kept secret, and if so, for what reason?

I have no specific reason to keep my identifiable personal data secret, but I find it strange that in other situations this is kept out of the public domain under the DPA, at least without someone having to go through a bit of bother to access it.

Mandat said:

I would have though that at the very least knowing the previous RK's details would be useful in establishing the cars provenance.

I agree this is good for provenance, but surely then it would be worth the V5C displaying all previous RK name and addresses, not just the last one?

TooMany2cvs said:

Just wait until he finds out that a fiver will buy you the complete list of all previous RKs for a vehicle you're keeper of...

I'm aware that you can request this, but also that you need 'reasonable cause' for them to give you this info.

[TooMany2cvs]

AOK said:

I'm aware that you can request this, but also that you need 'reasonable cause' for them to give you this info.

The only reasonable cause you need for a car you're keeper of is "I'd like it, please."

You only need an excuse to get the current keeper of another vehicle.

[mcflurry]

Isn't it so that a buyer can check the name and address matches where they are meeting the seller?

(aware that it's registered keeper not owner, and that 99% people are honest)

[PAULJ5555]

mcflurry said:

Isn't it so that a buyer can check the name and address matches where they are meeting the seller?

(aware that it's registered keeper not owner, and that 99% people are honest)

I think he said most current previous owner not the current owner.