London [UK], May 5: The local elections on Thursday marked the first time it has been compulsory for all voters in England to show photo identification when arriving at polling stations.
The much-criticised change was piloted regionally before the national roll-out. Those turning up at polling stations must show photo identification, such as a passport, driving licence or blue badge. Other forms of identity that will be accepted include biometric residence permits, defence identity cards, and national identity cards issued by the European Union, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein. Critics of the move argue it could deter young people and ethnic minorities from voting.
Questions have been raised about why bus and travel pass for older and disabled people are being accepted as photo IDs but that young people's travel cards will not be permitted. Professor John Curtice, a polling expert, told the BBC there was "perhaps ... a little bit of a partisan shadow about how it has been implemented", given young people are "more inclined to vote Labour these days."
The policy is opposed by Labour, the Liberal Democrats and the Green Party, with the parties encouraging voters to register for a postal vote not subject to the same voter ID regulations. Ministers have argued the change is required to reduce electoral fraud. The voter ID rules apply to England as of Thursday and will come into force for UK general elections in October.
Source: Qatar Tribune