I WAS interested to read the article – Tougher voter ID rules welcomed (Keighley News, December 29) – informing us Bradford is to be one of 18 pilot areas in May, 2018, at which those wishing to vote will have to present some form of identity before being able to cast their ballot.

In theory, this is a good idea, but the practice could – and almost certainly will – prove to be a great deal different.

Many people do not have a passport or driving licence, nor will they be able to present a utility bill, as these are largely online.

If there are those who are garnering postal votes, what is to stop them posting them rather than presenting them at the polling station?

Those who are prepared to be dishonest are not, by definition, stupid as well as crooked.

The almost inevitable outcome of this plan is many will simply decide to stay at home, rather than face the hassle of having to prove who they are. If I can somehow obtain another elector’s polling card, I must have access to their home, so with a little ingenuity could purloin a utility bill, should a paper one be in existence.

This measure is unlikely to prevent criminals from finding a way round the system, but will disenfranchise many honest prospective voters (or non-voters, as they will become).

MAJOR ALAN HICKMAN Keighley