Ex-servicemen and women in Milton Keynes could soon be able to use a Veteran Card to vote at the polls in future elections.
Issued by the Government, anyone who was in the regulars or reserves for the Royal Navy, Army, Royal Air Force (RAF), or Royal Marines is eligible for a Veteran Card.
The card was launched in January this year and requires applicants to provide their National Insurance number, dates of service, and a photo.
Although the card is issued by the Government, it was not on the list of accepted forms of ID for voting in elections.
MKCC’s Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Paul Trendall called on the Leader of the City Council to write to the Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner to ensure the Veterans Card be included as an acceptable form of Voter ID at future elections.
The Veterans Card is an ID Card with a photo, similar to the MoD 90 ID card for serving personnel and is acceptable as photo ID for bus pass and free or discounted transport.
The minister responsible, Alex Norris MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Democracy and Local Growth has since confirmed that the Government has committed to adding the Veteran Card to the list of documents that are accepted at the polling station.
Councillor Paul Trendall said, “I’m thrilled that the Government has committed to adding the Veteran Card to the list of accepted forms of Voter ID, this news will be welcomed by veterans across the city.”
Voters have been required to bring photographic identification for certain elections in the UK since May 2023.
This came after parliament passed the Elections Act in April 2022.
Voter ID is now required at by-elections and recall petitions, general elections, local elections, and referendums in England.
