Readers' letters - May 16

The idea on the part of the Government to try to introduce voter ID prior to voting in elections will disenfranchise many people, especially poorer communities.The pilot schemes used in some areas during the recent local elections have been nothing but a shambles.There were cases of people being denied a vote when they turned up, on the basis they did not have the correct ID, and it was apparent that some people were unable to access the required voter ID for a variety of reasons. The forms of ID required were inconsistent across the different trial areas, consequently causing confusion among voters. The Equality and Human Rights commission and a number of charities warned that these trials would have a disproportionate impact on older, young, trans, disabled and poorer people, as well as BME communities. If introduced in the North West, it is clear that this scheme would impact on many people in the poorer areas because there are many who will not have access to a passport or driving licence. It is hoped the Government will not take this idea any further because it is an attack on vulnerable people, as well as an infringement on Human Rights. I would urge the minister responsible for this scheme to publicly state that this scheme was morally wrong and to apologise to the voters who were denied a vote in the recent elections. David WhitakerAddress supplied

Go on Lakes trek and fight meningitis

We’d love your readers to join us on a Lake District trek and help conquer meningitis at the same time. Outdoor enthusiasts can take on next year’s challenge to climb eight peaks over 3,000 feet over two days. It’s not for the faint-hearted but it does promise spectacular views, serious adventure and a tremendous sense of achievement. If it is for you, every step you take will help us to fight meningitis and move us closer to our vision of a future where no one in the UK dies from the disease and everyone affected gets the support they need. Sadly, despite huge strides forward in vaccines and prevention, meningitis and septicaemia continue to affect thousands every year and kill more under-fives than any other infectious disease. Help us fight back on all fronts by funding research to eradicate the disease, raising awareness and supporting survivors. Walking time over the two days, which includes climbing Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England, is about 18 hours and the route covers 20 miles. But we’ll look after you really well, leaving you free to concentrate on the trek and enjoy the breath-taking scenery – it really is a stunning route. It takes place between May 2 and 5 next year, giving you plenty of time to prepare, and is suitable for individuals and groups. Interested? Find out more on our website at www.MeningitisNow.org or email me – [email protected] Michaela IfillEvents fundraiserMeningitis Now

Stop tax-dodgers to pay for NHS

Collect the tax due from tax-avoiding wealthy individuals and corporations and the NHS will not have to charge the many for the benefit of a few or arbitrarily place restrictions on operations and drugs. Abuse of the system is a separate issue. Private sector hospitals lack intensive care facilities and rely on the NHS. The sector cherry picks the most profitable procedures and makes little or no contribution to training. AH Robertsvia emailWhere is our opposition?

In a vigorous and healthy democracy like the United Kingdom, which is probably the envy of the rest of the free and democratic societies of the world, the party in power very much benefits from opposition parties which are sensible and fairly representative of a large sector of the population.It is my view that Mr Corbyn and the other opposition political party leaders should get their acts together and fire off a few salvos which will deter the party in power from making rash or extreme decisions.PL Taylorvia email