Council backs Lib Dem move to oppose compulsory identity cards

3.44.08pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 25th Oct 2005

The Liberal Democrats in Bradford have persuaded the Council to write to the Home Secretary expressing their opposition to compulsory Identity cards.

Councillor John Briggs said,

"The disadvantages of such a scheme will outweigh any benefits to the people of Bradford District. The cards will do nothing to prevent terrorism, crime or fraud.

According to Government estimates the cost of such a scheme could reach £6 billion, with independent commentators predicting costs of as much as £18 billion; they estimate cards between £220 and £300 each.

Even using the Governments own prediction's Bradford residents are likely to have to pay an estimated £38 for a stand-alone ID card or £93 for a passport and ID card together.

This will hit the most vulnerable and poorest in our society, those on low pay, who usually don't drive, don't go abroad, and as a consequence have no need for a driving licence or passport, yet will be forced to pay up to £100 for a card they don't want or need.

We also have major concerns about a huge amount of personal data being held in this way with the implications this would have for civil liberties and people's right to privacy."