Voter ID
Jacob Rees-Mogg had suggested the policy was an attempt to improve the Conservatives’ electoral chances.
Lord Cruddas seemed to concede that it was designed to suppress anti-Conservative support.
His comments came ahead of Thursday's local elections.
Party officials blamed a "printing error" for the misleading election leaflet.
From 5pm today, online applications for free voter ID will close.
Polling stations are drafting in extra staff to help voters with the government's new rules.
Anyone without photo identification will be unable to vote from next May
“When we stand in line to vote, we are more likely to be hit by lightning three times than to be queuing behind someone who is committing voter fraud."
Ministers want voters to produce their passport or driving licence at polling booths - even though there is no evidence of large-scale electoral fraud.
Final numbers are yet to be confirmed.