Craven District Council : Tell us your views on a Voter ID pilot in Craven

Craven District Council has been asked by the Government whether the council would be interested in taking part in a voter ID pilot at the next local elections on Thursday May 2, 2019.

This would mean all voters would be asked to produce proof of identity in order to be able to vote.

Residents would need to provide either one form of photo ID or two forms of non-photo ID, one of which can be a poll card, at the polling station before they were able to vote. Local authorities will provide alternative methods of ID free of charge to individuals who do not have the correct ID, ensuring that everyone who is registered has the opportunity to vote.

Craven’s Returning Officer is minded to agree to this pilot, but would like to hear the views of councillors and residents before making a decision.

A consultation has been launched and residents can take part by going to https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/voteridcraven

Paper copies are also available at Belle Vue Square, Skipton, Settle Tourist Information Centre and in Craven libraries.

Councillor Richard Foster, Leader of Craven District Council, said: “The Government is keen to include small rural authorities in this round of pilots, and by taking part Craven would be able to play an important role in helping to shape the way voter ID requirements are introduced so that they work in all areas of the country.

“If we do go ahead with this pilot then we will ensure that residents are kept fully informed as to what they need in order to vote, with clear, accessible messages and timely reminders to residents up to and including polling day.”

To find out more about the consultation, go to www.cravendc.gov.uk/voteridcraven