HC Deb 10 July 2002 vol 388 c967W
24. Lady Hermon

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress has been made with the introduction of electoral identity cards in Northern Ireland. [65823]

Dr. John Reid

The Electoral Office is currently exploring options available for the design and form of the electoral identity card. The Chief Electoral Officer intends to advertise for prospective contractors by early August.

A question will be included on this year's annual canvass form asking electors if they require an electoral identity card. This will enable the CEO to target his efforts and resources towards those people who require one. The card will be issued after the publication of the new electoral register on 1 December this year.