DVLA Private registration law change

Hi, I have a private reg on a retention certificate that ive held for a number of years bought through the dvla direct. Unfortunately I've lost the certificate in a recent house move. I recently requested a copy be sent to me, at the cost of £170 but they replied telling me the rules have now changed a year ago and now if you don't have the certificate then you don't own the plate as you cant renew it without it.


I paid £1500 for my number plate, how can it be fair that they can change the rules on this, not tell me, and now I have lost the rights to the number plate, this cant be allowed can it ?


I have written and just posted my 2nd letter of complaint to the customer services dept.


Be great to hear from anyone that knows. Thanks in advance.