Voter Photo ID: Another attack on our Freedoms

Recent legislation makes it mandatory to present proof of identity when casting a vote in an election. This will apply to the May local elections for Lichfield and Tamworth District Councils and ESBC as well as parish (including Lichfield City) elections.

There is a wide selection of valid ID documents, including passports and driving licences, but some surprising omissions. "For example, why is a senior railcard, with no photo, acceptable, but a 16-25 railcard, which does have a photo of the holder, not valid?" asks Hugh Ashton, Lib Dem City councillor for Garrick Road ward. "My worry is that many younger voters will not have any of the necessary documents on the list."

There are two ways in which registered voters who do not possess the necessary paper or plastic can still acquire proof of identity. The first is to purchase (typical cost is about £15) a PASS card, available online or through the Post Office. This is often accepted as legal proof of age, as well as identity verification. The second is to go through a government Web site.

However, although the Electoral Commission site implies that local authorities will process the applications, an enquiry to Lichfield District Council revealed that it has yet to be finalised who will process the applications.

"If this foul-up is not sorted out," Ashton says, "it is perfectly possible that quite a few registered voters will be unable to cast their ballot. The fault here does not seem to lie with the District Council or their officers - I received courteous and informed help when I called - but with the present government. This follows a consistent pattern of theirs - making an announcement and failing to turn words into reality."

Paul Ray, Liberal Democrat City and District councillor for Chadsmead, agrees. "It is important that people do involve themselves in the running of their local community and vote, especially younger people who may feel that they are being ignored. By voting, you are telling us what sort of local community you want to live in. As councillors we're not able to wave magic wands and automatically grant everybody's wish, but we are at least able to hear what those wishes are and to take appropriate action. Make sure that you are registered to vote and have the necessary ID. If you don't think you'll be able to vote in person, make sure you register in good time to receive a postal vote."

Ashton adds, "It's a mistake to abstain from voting and say 'They're all the same, and it doesn't matter who I vote for'. An entrenched ruling bloc in any group is a stumbling block to progress. We need change in our politics at every level, from national to local. Your votes are the way in which that change will happen."

A summary of the valid documents, and the procedures needed to register and to obtain valid ID is at: http://ltb.lib.dm/VoterID

Applying for government Voter ID: https://www.gov.uk/apply-for-photo-id-voter-authority-certificate

Registering to vote: https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

Applying for a postal vote (downloading a form to be sent to the local Electoral Office): https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/apply-for-a-postal-vote