Store card and catalogue ppi between 1990-97 while unemployed

[Kixx]

I have just realised i had ppi on one catologue and a store card between 1990-1997, I was not working during that period, i rang santander as it was a evans store, and the other company representing littlewoods. I am waiting to hear but having tried to read up it seems before 2001 there was no legalisation. I was told at the time I had to have ppi but I was not in work. If santander and littlewoods come back to decline me is that it.? I have got quite confused and appreciate any advice thank you