More than 2 million UK voters could lack the necessary ID to take part in future elections, according to a government analysis of its flagship bill on voting rights, spurring warnings that “decades of democratic progress” risk going into reverse. Details of the voter ID plans, set out by the Cabinet Office, show the range of possible photo ID types has been expanded from initial trials, where only passports, driving licences or ID cards were permitted, to include ID such as travel passes and blue badge disability parking permits. It found 91% of people aged over 85 possessed ID with a recognisable photo, and 94% of those with a disability. Opponents say the offence of impersonating another voter at a polling station is virtually nonexistent across the UK. He lamented the lack of a jobs plan in the speech, and of the long-promised employment bill to bolster rights at work.

Source: The Guardian May 11, 2021 18:08 UTC