Identity Cards Bill

MPs have sent the Identity Cards Bill back to the Lords amid continuing parliamentary deadlock.

The Commons voted by 292 to 241 in favour of the government on Thursday, a majority of 51.

The continuing dispute centres on proposals to ensure that from 2008 anyone renewing or applying for a passport must also have their details recorded on the national identity register.

Ministers say that the individual details will be recorded in any event as the UK introduces biometric passports.

But both the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats continue to oppose the move, saying the link breaches Labour's election pledge to introduce a voluntary scheme.

 

Stakeholder Response: IEE