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.
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Those voting by post do not require ID. Last month, Labour councillor Pat Karney warned of 'flare ups' at polling stations if voters are turned away.
Two weeks later, he pulled a stunt at a town hall meeting which left the council leader with her head in her hands. Wearing a faceless mask, he told the public council meeting that people will not be able to vote if they do not bring their ID.
Since then, the town hall veteran has taken to social media to promote the message, joined by fellow Harpurhey councillors also wearing masks. Today (April 25), the trio have featured in another video with a warning for voters.
But this time, they each wear two masks. The white faceless masks reappear - but on the back of their heads - with black Zorro-style eye masks on the front.
In the video, Coun Karney said: "Hello everybody in Harpurhey and Collyhurst. Next week on polling day, you will need facial ID to get your vote.
"If you haven't got that they won't allow you to vote."
Coun Joanne Green then continues, saying: "So make sure you've got a plan as to which facial ID that you are going to take with you."
Coun Sandra Collins adds: "This is a government regulation and we don't agree."
Coun Karney then signs off, saying: "So get the message, Harpurhey and Collyhurst. Thank you."
Coun Karney is standing for re-election in Harpurhey where he is currently one of the three Labour councillors. The other candidates contesting the seat are:
- Gareth Joseph Brown, The Consevative Party Candidate
- Sam Cook, The Gren Party
- Celia Mary Craske, Liberal Democrats
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