The main objection was that an ID card shifts the balance of power between the state and the individual. Now, Mr Johnson plans a law that would make access to a ballot paper conditional on production of photo ID. Putting the measure in an “electoral integrity bill” is an act of cynicism worthy of a banana republic. The illiberal voter ID plan was included in the Queen’s speech alongside a “freedom of speech” bill, ostensibly compelling universities to resist censorship. He once believed that mandatory photo ID was a sinister means of excessive state control.

Source: The Guardian May 12, 2021 17:15 UTC