The backdrop to this government action is this:
The UK has low levels of proven electoral fraud.
There remains no evidence of large-scale electoral fraud in 2021.
There remains no evidence of large-scale electoral fraud in 2019.
In 2018, there was no evidence of large-scale electoral fraud.
Of the 266 cases that were investigated by the police, one led to a conviction, and two suspects accepted police cautions.
In 2017, there was one conviction and eight suspects accepted police cautions.
Therefore, the question is why now? Who are the government attempting to put off voting?
Voter ID
Voters will need to show an accepted form of photographic identification next time they go to the polling station.
Whilst there are no planned elections in Dorset Council area until May 2024, why not apply now so you have it ready should there be a snap election or by-election before then, and, if not, you’ve got it ready for 2024.
The requirement to show photo ID at the polling station was introduced by UK Government’s Elections Act, which comes into effect for the first time this May.
Accepted forms of ID include a UK, European Economic Area (EEA) or Commonwealth passport; a UK, EEA or Commonwealth drivers’ licence; and some concessionary travel passes, such as an older person’s bus pass.
Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.
The full list of accepted ID is available on the Electoral Commission’s website, along with more information about the new requirement and details of how to apply for the free ID once it has launched: electoralcommission.org.uk/voterID.
If voters don’t have accepted photo ID, they can apply for a free voter ID document, which is known as a ‘Voter Authority Certificate’.
Jonathan Mair, Director of Legal & Democratic at Dorset Council, said:
“In future, anyone who wishes to vote in person will be required to produce an accepted form of photographic ID to prove their identity before they will be issued with a ballot paper. This will apply to all elections from 1 May 2023.
“Residents who do not have one of the accepted forms of ID can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate either online or by completing a paper application form.
Those needing to register to vote can do so at: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
Residents will not need to provide photo ID to vote by post.
BCP council
Details have today been released on how voters without photo ID can take part in May’s local elections.
Residents of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole without an accepted form of photographic identification can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate (VAC) online now.
Applications can be completed at: voter-authority-certificate.service.gov.uk
The requirement to show photo ID at the polling station has been introduced under the UK Government’s Elections Act, which comes into effect for the first time this May.
BCP Council previously encouraged residents to make sure they are ready to vote by checking early for an accepted form of photo ID. Voters will also be able to use expired photo ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.
Accepted forms of photo ID can be seen here.
If voters don’t have any valid photo ID, they should apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate.
Residents will need to provide their name, address, date of birth and National Insurance number, to apply, as well as be registered to vote.
If voters don’t know their NI number, BCP Council will get in touch to ask for an alternative proof of identity, such as a birth certificate, bank statement or utility bill.
Residents will also need to submit a passport-style photograph with their application.
Matt Pitcher, Head of Elections at BCP Council said:
“We’re keen for any residents who do not have one of the accepted forms of photo ID to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate early and make sure they are able to vote in May.”
“The deadline to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate ahead of BCPs’ local elections is 5pm on Tuesday 25 April 2023.
“Going online now is the easiest option, but if you are unable to do this then please call us on 01202 123400 and we can discuss your options or send a paper form.”
Anyone needing a Voter Authority Certificate – must also be registered to vote by Monday 17 April 2023.
When you register to vote, you’ll be asked whether you have photo ID or if you want to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate.
The Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole local elections are taking place on 4 May 2023.
Join us in helping to bring reality and decency back by SUBSCRIBING to our Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1Ll1ylCg8U19AhNl-NoTg and SUPPORTING US where you can: Award Winning Independent Citizen Media Needs Your Help. PLEASE SUPPORT US FOR JUST £2 A MONTH https://dorseteye.com/donate/
