SCOTTISH voters have been warned they must bring ID to cast their ballot at the upcoming General Election.
The Electoral Commission has issued a reminder for Scots – most of whom will not have had to cast a vote since new voter ID rules came in – ahead of the next national poll.
English local elections in May last year were the first time voters were asked to show identification before being given their ballot papers.
Those who voted in the Rutherglen and Hamilton West by-election in October will have had experience with the new system.
Hundreds were turned away at that election because they failed to bring appropriate ID, underlining campaigners' concerns the new rules put people off voting.
But the majority of Scots have not had to produce identification like a driver’s licence before casting their ballots.
Andy O’Neill, head of the Electoral Commission in Scotland, urged voters to take note of the new rules and ensure they have appropriate ID so that “when polling day arrives, all they have to do is remember to bring it”.
He added: “Those who don’t have an accepted form of ID can apply for free ID.
“We are working closely with councils and civil society organisations to support those less likely to have ID, so that nobody misses the opportunity to have their say.”
Accepted forms of photo ID include a passport, driving licence, older persons or disabled persons bus pass and Young Scot card.
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Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo.
O’Neill added: “Our campaign aims to build awareness of the change amongst voters and remind them to bring ID on polling day. Those seeking more information on accepted forms of ID and the free ID should visit the Commission’s website for more information.”
No date has yet been given for the General Election but the latest it can be held is January next year.
Anyone who does not have one of the accepted forms of ID will be able to apply for free ID online by clicking here or by completing a paper form available from their electoral registration office.
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