REQUIRING ID at polling stations is not about protecting our democracy, it’s about limiting our democratic freedom.

Data shows, as of 2015, 3.5 million citizens, or 7.5 per cent of the electorate, did not have access to any photo ID meaning that while the move may stop a dozen complaints of fraud, it could also disenfranchise millions.

Cases of fraud by impersonation at British elections are absolutely minimal – a much greater problem is low turnout and this measure, if implemented, will further discourage voters.

The Government also plans to dismantle the Electoral Commission watchdog and hobble Judicial Review, which overturned the Prime Minister’s unlawful prorogation of Parliament in 2019.

Mayoral elections in England will be returned to First Past the Post – the only countries in Europe which still use this antiquated system for national legislatures are the UK and Belarus.

Taken together, these measures are a coordinated and insidious attack on the fabric of our democracy.

They clearly show that the Government wants to avoid accountability, in parliament, in court and at the ballot box, and it is vital that progressive parties work together to stop them.

It’s about time we made our voting system fair so that election results actually reflect the will of the people, every vote is counted and trust is restored in our political system.

Until we do, progressive parties must unite to resist this unchecked power grab from those at the top and British citizens must be aware of the danger to our democracy.

HEATHER WILLIAMS

Christchurch