Voters have been warned that they must bring photo identification to take part in the local elections next week – by three Manchester councillors wearing multiple masks. The voter ID rules come into force for the first time this year.
There are concerns that the new law affecting all council elections in England could lead to fewer people voting. But the government says it wants to 'ensure maximum participation in elections while protecting the integrity of the ballot box'.
It means anyone voting at a polling station on May 4 will need to present photo identification such as a driving licence or a passport. People can also use a free Voter Authority Certificate, but the deadline to apply for this has now passed.
