The Government has introduced new legislation which means photographic identification will be compulsory for anyone voting in person in this year’s local elections.
Voters attending polling stations on Thursday 4th May, 2023 will be refused a ballot paper if they do not show Government-approved photo ID.
Accepted ID includes a passport, driving licence, concessionary bus pass or a PASS card (Proof of Age Standards Scheme).
If you don’t have any of these forms of ID, you can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate. A website has been set up for registration for free voter ID.
Harry Catherall, chief executive of the notorious, ‘cover-up’ Oldham Council, and, by default, Returning Officer for the local elections, said in a statement released on the OMBC website earlier today:
“This change in electoral law means that many Oldham residents could be denied a ballot paper when they come to vote in the May elections.
“We’re doing everything to make sure that doesn’t happen and encourage voters to take photo ID with them or register for free voter ID if you need it.
“The council is on hand to support residents in obtaining Voter Authority Certificates and a new Government website will be launching today, 16th January, 2023 to register for this.
“If you can’t get online, our staff can help you complete this over the phone. For assistance, please call 0161 770 4718.
“Alternatively, you can call into one of our libraries and our staff can help you get online and talk you through online registration.”
Postal votes will not require further ID and the deadline for registering for a postal vote for this year’s local election is 18th April 2023.
They can be sent into the Elections Office at Oldham’s Civic Centre but can also be handed in to any polling station on 4th May – election day.
To be eligible to vote in Oldham or to register for a Voter Authority Certificate, you need to be registered. You can find out more on the Council’s website at Register to Vote.
More information about Voter ID, including what photo ID will be accepted, is available at http://www.oldham.gov.uk/VoterID
Page last updated Monday 16th January, 2023 at 1615hrs
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