Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The Committee seeks to understand the discussions with the Electoral Commission on voter ID implementation in different regions.
What recent discussions has the Committee had with the Electoral Commission on the implementation of voter ID in Scotland, Wales and England ahead of national elections?
The Committee discussed the Commission's work to support the implementation of voter ID at its public evidence session in March. The Commission supported voters, campaigners and electoral administrators ahead of local elections in England in May. Its research shows that public awareness increased from 22% in December 2022 to 87% in April 2023.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
▸
Context
New rules for identity checks in postal and proxy voting have raised concerns among civil society groups about barriers to older people's voting.
What concerns and ongoing discussions does the Electoral Commission have with the UK Government on proposals requiring identity checks for postal and proxy voting ahead of general elections, alongside any consultations with stakeholders?
The Commission has done research to identify key groups who may need additional support for ID requirements, including over-85s. It worked ahead of May elections with civil society organisations and local authorities to produce tailored resources for each group.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Details on concerns and ongoing discussions with the UK Government are not provided.
Policy Decisions Are For Government.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
A former Cabinet Minister claimed that new voter ID rules could disenfranchise voters, citing examples of people being turned away due to lack of proper identification.
What steps are being taken to ensure that voters are not disenfranchised by the introduction of voter ID requirements?
The introduction of voter ID was debated and passed by Parliament. The Electoral Commission supports electoral administrators; policy decisions are for the Government.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Steps to prevent disenfranchisement were not addressed.
Policy Decisions Are For Government.
Response accuracy
Q4
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The Under-Secretary of State claimed the roll-out was successful based on anecdotal feedback, but the Electoral Commission warned about delaying it.
What steps are being taken by the Electoral Commission to evaluate the success of voter ID roll-out and what findings have been published?
The Electoral Commission will publish responses and findings from the local election roll-out in May. A report focusing specifically on voter ID will be available shortly, with a full protocol report due in September covering evidence gathered by returning officers across England.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy