Alex Norris, a communities minister has said that veterans ID card will be accepted for voting at upcoming elections.
In May veterans were turned away as their ex-forces ID card was not allowed to be used as an acceptable form of identification.
Norris said, “No veteran should be turned away from the polling station while trying to use their veteran card as voter ID.
“They are an incredible community who have dedicated their lives to this country, and it is wrong that the exclusion of this card has been a barrier to their ability to vote.
“That’s why we’re supporting our incredible veterans by expanding the list of voter identifications to include it so they can participate in democracy without the fear of being turned away on election day.”
Al Carns, the veterans minister, said, “Veterans’ cards are a tangible symbol of the extraordinary sacrifices our veterans have made to defend our nation and it is only right that the Government gives these cards the recognition they deserve.
“We are committed to renewing the nation’s contract with all those who serve and have served, and this is an important step to making this important community feel supported when voting.”
Mark Atkinson, director general of the Royal British Legion added, “It is vital that the voice of the Armed Forces community is heard at every election, now that voter ID is required to vote in elections in the UK, this change will make it easier for those who have served to cast their vote.”
