A new report reveals that the voter identification rules resulted in racial and disability discrimination. The all-party parliamentary group has called for changes.

Ross voters would have first encountered these new rules during the local elections earlier this year. The report asserts that the rules did more harm than good since their implementation in May. It recommends changes, including the acceptance of a wider range of ID documents.

While the impact on the local elections’ outcome remains unclear, the report warns of potential consequences in a general election, potentially influencing the results in up to 16 constituencies.

The report criticises the heavy reliance on decisions made by polling clerks and returning agents, which lack a system of appeal. It urges ministers to expand the list of acceptable identification documents and suggests allowing those who fail ID checks to sign a legally binding declaration confirming their identity.