THE Local Government Association has warned there is not enough time to voter ID rules for May’s forthcoming elections.
The umbrella group looks after all local authorities, including Wokingham and Reading borough councils.
They have concerns about the scheme, which would see voters forced to produce photo ID before being given their ballot paper – the LGA warns they won’t have time to make all the necessary preparations.
Their comments come ahead of a parliamentary vote this week.
Cllr James Jamieson, LGA Chairman, said: “While we accept that voter ID has now been legislated for, electoral administrators and returning officers should be given the appropriate time, resource, clarity and detailed guidance to implement any changes to the electoral process without risking access to the vote.
“We are concerned that there is insufficient time to do this ahead of the May 2023 elections and for this reason are calling for the introduction of voter ID requirements to be delayed.”
He said the LGA supports the Gould Principle whereby electoral law should not be changed within six months of an election that the change would impact.
“The new voter ID requirements would have a number of implications for councils, such as a review of polling stations, and where necessary finding new venues in time for May’s elections,” he continued.
“We also have concerns over the readiness of new IT systems, being able to properly test these and ensure staff receive training.
“In addition, new voter ID requirements will require comprehensive local awareness campaigns, which councils need to be adequately funded for to tailor awareness raising efforts with the needs of their local population.”
He wanted the government to delay the implementation of voter ID, and pledged to work with government and councils to ensure this planned change worked going forward.
