Boris Johnson confirmed plans to press ahead with new requirements for photographic ID at polling stations, in the face of accusations that the move is designed to suppress voting by young people and disadvantaged groups. 

But another, and perhaps more worrying, part of the plan will mean that after every 3 years voters will automatically be deleted from the Electoral Register and lose their right to vote, unless they remember to re-register their name and address on the Register.

At present people’s names are kept on the list until they either change address or their names come off the register for other specific reasons, such as if they are deceased.

Under the new proposals people’s names will no longer remain on the register after 3 years, by default.

Other proposed changes include limiting the number of postal votes that can be handed in by any one individual.

“Make no mistake – these plans will leave tens of thousands of legitimate voters voiceless. Ministers should focus on combating the real threats to our democracy, rather than suppressing voters’ rights.

“The government has no examples to justify this ‘show your papers’ policy. There is simply no evidence of widespread impersonation. Simply put, ministers must think again and withdraw this dangerous proposal.” the Electoeal Reform Society director of policy and research Jess Garland said.