Statement by TUV leader and North Antrim MP Jim Allister:
“I welcome confirmation in answer to my written question to the Secretary of State that His Majesty’s Government intends to bring forward legislation to add the HM Armed Forces Veteran Card to the list of identity documents that may be used in Northern Ireland polling stations in advance of the next scheduled elections in Northern Ireland which will be held in 2027.
“The Veteran Card is a tangible symbol of veterans’ service and adding it to the list is an appropriate move given that we only have the freedom to take part in elections because of the sacrifice of our servicemen and servicewomen.
“It is welcome that this move will apply to the whole of the UK including Northern Ireland were so many veterans served during Operation Banner and where many will remember colleagues who paid the ultimate price for the freedom we exercise on polling day.”
Mr Allister’s question and the answer received are as follows:
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will update the List of Specified Documents that can be used in elections in Northern Ireland to include the (a) HM Armed Forces veteran card and (b) MOD90 card.
The Government intends to bring forward legislation to add the HM Armed Forces Veteran Card to the list of identity documents that may be used in Northern Ireland polling stations in advance of the next scheduled elections in Northern Ireland which will be held in 2027.
The list of identity documents that can be produced at polling stations in Northern Ireland is well established and understood. Any further changes to the list will be considered as part of a wider review.