Did the new photo ID rule deter voters at this year’s local elections?

If anything, the number put off by the new law is an underestimate says Andrew Grice

There is anecdotal evidence the new system encouraged people to stay at home rather than vote (AP)

About 14,000 people did not vote in England’s local elections in May after being unable to show an accepted form of photo ID,  according to the Electoral Commission.

The watchdog’s study has reignited the debate about the controversial change introduced by the government which was accused of trying to suppress turnout to benefit the Conservatives. Passports, driving licences and blue badges were among the IDs allowed, and voters could apply for free certificates. While travel passes for the over-60s were permitted, those for students and young people were not.

What did the study find?