Government should abandon ID Card plans

2.29.00pm GMT Thu 4th Aug 2005

no2id logo - the anti-identity card (id card) and national identity database campaign

no2id logo - the anti-identity card (id card) and national identity database campaign

The government has admitted that it has been guilty of "overselling" the case for a compulsory national identity card scheme in Britain and conceded that it will not prove a panacea for fraud, terrorism or the abuse of public services.

Tony McNulty, the Home Office minister now responsible for identity cards, has also admitted that "in its enthusiasm" the government mistakenly emphasised the benefits to the state rather than arguing its benefits to the individual citizen.

Mark Oaten, Liberal Democrat Shadow Home Secretary said "It is refreshing to see such honesty from a Government Minister. The money for the Government's flawed ID card plans would be far better spent on more police and better border controls. The Home Office should abandon their plans before they waste any more of Parliament's time and taxpayers' money."

Bookmark this story at: del.icio.usdel.icio.us DiggDigg FacebookFacebook LibDigLibDig redditreddit StumbleUponStumbleUpon
Print this news story.
Previous news story: Liberal Democrat Campaigners Welcome New Guidance on Mini Motorbikes (Wed 3rd Aug 2005).
Next news story: Kennedy: Prime Minister should not count on support from the Liberal Democrats (Fri 5th Aug 2005).

Printed and hosted by Prater Raines Ltd, 82b Sandgate High Street, Folkestone CT20 3BX.
Published and promoted by Birmingham Liberal Democrat Council Group, c/o 78 Alcester Road, Birmingham, B13 8BB.
The views expressed are those of the party, not of the service provider.