RESIDENTS in Bromsgrove and across the country will need to show a photo ID to vote in this year’s local elections for the first time.
The new requirement was introduced by the UK Government’s Elections Act which was passed last year.
The council is urging people to make sure they’re ready to vote in May by checking they have an accepted form of ID.
This could include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA), or Commonwealth passport or driver’s licence, some concessionary travel passes such as an older person’s bus pass or an Oyster 60+ card.
In addition, voters will be able to use an expired ID if they’re still recognisable from the photo, and anyone who does not currently have one of the accepted forms will be able to apply for a free ID.
Bromsgrove District’s Returning Officer, Kevin Dicks, said: “Now that the law has changed, it is vital those who want to vote on May 4 make sure they have an accepted form of ID.
“This applies to everyone voting at a polling station, so please consider getting ready now and avoid any late rush.
“If you don’t already have one of the accepted forms of ID, you can apply for free ID either online or by sending in a paper application form.
“If you need any help, please just contact the Electoral Services team at the district council who will support you.”
Bromsgrove Liberal Democrat Chair Dr David Nicholl said the government’s decision was ‘utterly bonkers.’
“There is not a shred of evidence of voter fraud in Worcestershire.
“It feels as though the law has been made for very cynical reasons to protect the Conservative vote.
“It’s going to create a lot of hassle toward running local elections as well, but we are where we are and it’s really important people register to vote and we make sure information is out there for people to obtain some form of ID.”
The Electoral Commission’s Director of Electoral Administration and Guidance, Ailsa Irvine, said: “Anyone voting at a polling station in England this May will need to show photo ID before they can be given their ballot paper.
“It’s important that everyone understands what types of ID they can use, and how to apply for free ID if they need it.
“You can find information about the new requirement and what to expect at the polling station on the Electoral Commission’s website.”
Visit www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/elections or call Bromsgrove District Councils’ electoral services team at 01527 881421 for more information.
To register to vote visit www.gov.uk/register-to-vote.
- What do you think? Are you happy with the fact photo ID will be needed by people who want to vote? Or do you think the rules should have been left as they were? Email your views to [email protected]
