The Cabinet remains split over controversial plans to introduce a system of ID cards, the home secretary has admitted.

Following reports that Tony Blair was preparing to shelve the plans, David Blunkett conceded that some ministers remained unconvinced.

The proposals, which won the backing of the prime minister in his conference address, have raised fears of a nationwide revolt.

Some ministers - including deputy prime minister John Prescott - fear the plan will prove costly and unpopular.

Whilst Blunkett still believes he has the support of the prime minister for the system of entitlement cards he confirmed that the issue had yet to be resolved.

Speaking on Tuesday, the home secretary said Cabinet discussions would be on-going in future weeks.

"I hope we will conduct, as we have over the past 18 to 20 months, an open and honest internal debate with each other," he told the BBC.

"If I can't satisfy their concerns then we won't go ahead. I hope I will be able to.

"If I didn't think it were possible, I wouldn't be having the continuing discussions through the domestic affairs committee under the chairmanship of the deputy prime minister and I wouldn't be bringing it back to Cabinet later in the autumn."

Blunkett added that it would be "the prime minister in Cabinet" who would make the final decision about whether to include legislation on ID cards in next month's Queen's Speech.

The home secretary added that the hi-tech cards he is proposing would deal with "clandestine entry, clandestine working [and] illegal use of our services".

Number 10 later denied suggestions of a Cabinet rift over the issue.

A spokesman for the prime minister said Blunkett was adopting "constructive and collegiate" approach.

"What David Blunkett was saying is there's a vigorous debate going on in Cabinet, and it is perfectly good government for that to happen," he said.