Couple challenges DVLA’s offensive plate ban, sparking concerns over similar postcodes and potential address changes.
John and Jackie Cooke had owned “N14 GAS” since 1997, but the DVLA deemed it racially offensive. The couple, who are Bristol Rovers supporters, explained that “The Gas” is their team’s nickname.
Following the ruling, the couple received messages from many people, including London residents concerned about their postcodes. These postcodes contain similar letters and numbers, raising questions about their potential impact.
The couple highlighted that postcodes like N14 are affected, using N14 6AS as an example. Given that Royal Mail and councils use these postcodes, they wonder what will happen to addresses too. Further emphasizing the concern, someone shared a message mentioning N14 6AS in Enfield and N16 6AS in Hackney.
The couple emailed the DVLA head and contacted the Secretary of State, seeking their involvement in the issue, and expressing outrage regarding the number plate ban. The email also pointed out similar postcodes that could be deemed offensive, arguing that if “N14 GAS” remains banned, these postcodes should be changed.
The DVLA reviews number plates regularly, withholding those deemed offensive or inappropriate. However, sometimes one slips through, and they subsequently take steps to withdraw it. The DVLA’s policy states they consider withdrawing offensive plates when they are displayed on a car.
If they withdraw a plate, they update records and notify the customer, with a short delay for the letter’s arrival. The couple received a DVLA letter two days after their email confirming the “N14 GAS” registration withdrawal, meaning they can’t use it again.