Mark Whitehead 31 March 2023

Confusion over suitable ID ahead of elections

Confusion over suitable ID ahead of elections  image
Image: chrisdorney/Shutterstock.com.

Local leaders in Merseyside have raised worries that confusion over acceptable ID in elections could exclude some people from voting.

Voters must have photo ID when they head to the polling stations for the May local council elections which includes national bus passes for people aged 65 and older.

But the Merseyside’s 60+ local bus pass is not on the list of acceptable documents.

It means one of the bus passes issued by the same authority with the same security checks is acceptable while the other is not.

Following last year’s Elections Act voters must present photo ID from a list of acceptable documents to vote in person at local and general elections.

The Electoral Commission guidance says one of the documents that can be used is an older person's bus pass.

Tom Crone, leader of the Green group on Liverpool City Council, said: ‘We are still being approached by residents who aren't sure if their ID is valid.

‘The fact that one type of bus pass is valid but another isn't means that people could be turned away from polling stations due to an honest mistake.

‘Some people might not have the time to return and will therefore be denied their right to vote.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Social Worker - Family Support and Safeguarding - Bicester Banbury

Oxfordshire County Council
£37035 - £47754
You will manage a caseload tailored to your experience, ensuring that children’s and their families’ voices are heard, and their needs are met. You will work with families using the FSP Workbook modules, and a strengths-based approach, ensuring the As Bicester
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Executive Director of Resources & Governance (S151 Officer)

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Homes, Communities & Environment

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council

Executive Director of Strategy, People & Transformation

Basildon Borough Council
Up to £146,245
Together, we lead. Together, we deliver. Together, we transform. Basildon, Essex
Recuriter: Basildon Borough Council
Linkedin Banner