Cabinet considers ID card scheme

David Blunkett has given his support to the introduction of ID cards, it has been reported.

In a leaked letter to his Cabinet colleagues, the home secretary advises that a consultation exercise has revealed support for such a scheme.

The Sunday Times reported that identity cards would cost £39 for those in work and over 16 years old, while those for 16-year olds, people on low incomes and pensioners over 75 would be paid for by the Treasury.

Those receiving benefits and pensioners under the age of 75 would pay a £5 charge.

Currently, 11 European Union countries have an identity card scheme.

"I believe that the case for introducing a universal identity card in the UK is overwhelming. The consultation exercise showed strong public support for a card scheme and a preference for the term 'identity card' rather than 'entitlement card'," Blunkett said in the letter, dated June 25."The argument that identity cards will inhibit our freedoms is wrong. We are strengthened in our liberty if our identity is protected from theft; if we are able to access the services we are entitled to; and if our community is better protected from terrorists and organised criminals. There is a highly organised minority who will campaign vocally against a scheme.

"However, the identity card I am proposing would not be used to store large amounts of personal data to which government departments or agencies would have unfettered access.

"There will be strict limits on what is held on the card, and what information different agencies can access via the card and the central database. Privacy will be protected, as it is in other advanced democracies that have identity cards.

"Nor will it be compulsory for people to carry a card, though as now with driving licences, the police or other agencies could require its production as a secure proof of identity in strictly defined circumstances.

"It will be important to reinforce these messages continually during the debate on legislation."

The cards would contain such biometric data as fingerprints or iris readings, it is suggested.

However, other Cabinet ministers are believed to be sceptical about the move, which also faces widespread opposition on civil rights grounds.