Veterans who protected democracy can now practise it using their veteran ID cards

Our veterans are an incredible community who embody our deeply held values of democracy and patriotism.

That's why I was shocked to read reports in the news earlier this year that they were being turned away from the ballot box because veteran ID cards were not allowed to be used as voter ID.  

It is simply wrong that those who have protected democracy for so long can't now practise it because veteran ID cards have not been accepted as official forms of ID.

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As Minister for Veterans and People, I am making sure that this does not happen again.  

Our Armed Forces personnel, veterans, and their families make the ultimate public service and it is only right that their professionalism and bravery is acknowledged and they get the support they deserve.

I stand behind our veterans and will do everything I can to make sure there are no barriers which will stop them from participating in elections which shape their community and country. 

So I am proud to say that we are fixing this problem by signing and laying legislation in Parliament to allow the veteran ID card to be used in time for next year's local elections in May.   

We will also continue to explore additional uses and benefits of the veteran ID card so that it gives veterans access to the services they need.  

This Government was elected on a manifesto commitment to deliver change for the British people, including our veterans.

Together we will reset our nation's contract with those who serve and have served.

You only need to look at the action we have already taken to see how serious we are about this commitment.

Just last month the Prime Minister announced our ambition to give all veterans in need of housing a place they can call home.

We will exempt veterans from rules which would require them to have a connection to a local area before accessing social housing.  

And the £20m Veterans Capital Housing Fund will support the refurbishment of affordable and social housing so that veterans have the high-quality accommodation they deserve. 

We owe our veterans for the great service they have paid this country by making sure that they are not wrongly turned away from the ballot box again.

This Government is dedicated to ensuring veterans get the deal they deserve.

– Written by Minister for Veterans and People Al Carns.