The rules have now changed. You can no longer just "ignore" as per before, but have to go through POPLA.

http://www.popla.org.uk/

The net result is still the same but there is a bit more legwork involved. Moneysavingexpert forum is fantastic for info, they have step by step guides and can advise how to get out of them.

But yes, they are thieving cunts. They only need a small percentage to cough up unfortunately to make it worth their while regardless if a large proportion contest and get them cancelled.