Britain's electoral watchdog said Friday that about 14,000 people were prevented from voting in last month's local elections because of a new law requiring voters to show photo identification.
The Electoral Commission said 0.25 per cent of people who went to polling stations were unable to cast ballots because they didn't have the right ID, and "significantly more" than that likely did not show up at all.
"We don't want to see a single voter lose the opportunity to have their say," he said. "We are working to understand the challenges people faced, and will make recommendations that, with the engagement of government and wider electoral community, will support the participation of all voters." Opposition parties accused the Conservative government of trying to suppress the votes of those less likely to support the ruling party.
The government says getting an older person's travelcard requires proof of age, unlike other transit passes. But the discrepancy has brought allegations the change will disproportionately prevent young people -- the group least likely to support the Conservatives -- from voting. Poor people are also less likely to have photo ID than the more affluent.
Philippines Latest News, Philippines Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Cormorant Island hospital emergency department closed until FridayStaff shortage has forced closing.
Read more »
Annual Downtown @ Dusk street party Friday nightDowntown Belleville celebrates the summer solstice Friday night with Downtown Dusk. The popular annual event...
Read more »
Warm temperatures and wildfire smoke remain across the region for Friday
Read more »
Opinion: Seven years after the Brexit vote, Britain and the EU are still drifting apartThe Labour Party is too worried about winning to discuss it now, but a new U.K. government will need a bold strategy to reverse course with its biggest market
Read more »
Before the Bell: What every Canadian investor needs to know todayToday, Wall Street futures were down early Friday with key indexes on track for a losing week as rate concerns continue to stalk the markets. Here’s what you need to know before stock markets open ⬇️
Read more »