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Electoral Commission Committee
01 December 2022
Lead MP
Alistair Carmichael
Orkney and Shetland
Lib Dem
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Democracy & ElectionsWomen & Equalities
Other Contributors: 4
At a Glance
Alistair Carmichael raised concerns about electoral commission committee in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Government Response
Responded that Government piloted voter ID models but evaluations did not draw definitive conclusions. Emphasised accessibility for all voters regardless of age.
Alistair Carmichael
Lib Dem
Orkney and Shetland
Asked whether the Committee has held recent discussions with the commission on the potential impact of different forms of voter identification on levels of voter turnout. Also questioned if the Government is being allowed to railroad through an introduction that will not be secure or workable by 2023 and whether good sense is heard in time.
Cat Smith
Lab
Lancaster and Wyre
Responded that the Government piloted different voter ID models in 2018 and 2019, but evaluations could not draw definitive conclusions. Emphasised that voting at polling stations must remain accessible for all regardless of age.
Nadia Whittome
Lab
Nottingham East
Asked if the Committee has discussed with the commission on the impact of voter ID introduction on young people’s ability to vote. Noted that regulations listing documents as acceptable voter ID were in secondary legislation.
Inquired whether the Electoral Commission can ensure nobody loses out and this will not take a single penny from those who cannot afford to buy ID.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.