LOCAL DEMOCRACY

Voter ID pilot using poll cards worked in Watford

Watford BC's voter ID pilot using poll cards with technology as proof of identity enhanced the elections and did not put electors off exercising their right to vote, says Gordon Amos.

We've all seen sci-fi films depicting a microchipped populace, who can logon and verify their identify anywhere, anytime.  Whilst we're not quite that futuristic yet, the voter ID pilot successfully run by Watford BC did demonstrate a non-cumbersome system, combining traditional procedures with 21st century technology. The result was improved security and record turnout.

Following a report on voting fraud by Sir Eric Pickles, central government announced that Voter ID trials would start from 2018. Watford BC became one of the five local authorities across England to take part in these landmark pilots which, if adopted, will transform our voting system.

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