02 May 2023 , 21:24
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At tomorrow’s local elections hundreds of thousands of people could be denied their right to vote.
They include Oonagh Preece, 93, who has taken part in every election since 1950.
Ms Preece is one of the estimated two million people without a form of photo ID.
Under new rules introduced by this Tory government you will need to show valid identification to vote in England’s local elections.
This requirement will apply across the UK at next year’s general election.
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The Tories changed the law on the flimsy basis it will prevent ballot box fraud. Yet there is no evidence of widespread corruption: of the 32 million votes cast in the 2019 general election, one resulted in conviction for fraud.
And the Government has done very little to publicise this unnecessary change.
It is a blatant attempt to suppress the vote by shutting people out of polling stations.
A party which believed in democracy would seek to encourage participation, not stifle it.
Less is more
The Coronation has prompted a debate about the size and role of the monarchy.
King Charles is reported to favour a slimmed-down Royal Family but his sister, Princess Anne, takes a different view.
Hard-working Anne more than justifies her keep but the King’s vision is more in tune with the public – our opinion poll found a clear majority favour a smaller royal household.
If you can’t see the poll, click here
Amid a cost of living crisis the expenditure and lifestyle of the royals has faced greater scrutiny. So it is sensible for the Palace to review the composition of the monarchy.
It is not lese-majeste to want less majesty.
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It is a reflection of how the royals need to evolve if they want to retain their popularity.
Street value
Former Coronation Street star Amanda Barrie has put an original cobble from the soap’s set up for auction.
It has an estimate of £100 but the price is not set in stone.