Prime Minister Andy Burnham is reportedly "rushing" to fast-track legislation that could affect millions of voters. The Representation of the People Bill aims to abolish photo ID requirements at polling stations, allowing voters to use bank cards for identification instead.
What the bill proposes
Current Conservative legislation from 2023 requires voters to present photo ID when casting their ballots. The contentious reforms would broaden acceptable identification to include bank cards bearing no photograph of their holders.
The bill also features stricter controls on political donations and would extend voting rights to individuals aged 16 and above.
Support and concerns
While the Electoral Commission and Association of Electoral Administrators broadly support the bill, both have voiced concerns about permitting bank cards as voter ID.
Possible early election
The speed at which the bill is progressing has fuelled speculation that Burnham may call an early general election before the August 2029 deadline.
