Blunkett unveils ID card proposals

Eight-out-of-10 people in the UK can expect to have been issued with an ID card by 2013, under plans unveiled today by the government.

Home Secretary David Blunkett said today that plans an ID card scheme would help to tackle issues like illegal working, immigration abuse, fraud, terrorism and organised crime.

The cards would include basic personal information, a digital photo and a 'biometric' imprint – which can include facial recognition, iris scans or fingerprints. For most UK citizens, the card will take the form of a biometric passport which will be upgraded when it comes up for renewal.

The government expects that 80% of the adult population would have an ID card by 2013 if passports and driving licences are issued on the proposed biometric basis. The card would then become compulsory for all residents after a decision by the cabinet and a vote in Parliament.

It will not be compulsory to carry a card. All EU and foreign nationals coming into the country for more than three months will have to pay for a biometric residence permit.

Mr Blunkett said: "What we know the public want, which is what we are now proposing, is a scheme that can provide them with a secure and convenient way of confirming their identity, to protect it from theft, tackle terrorism and organised crime and ensure free public services only go to those entitled to them."

The details of the card are not yet finalised but it is likely that: basic details will be on the face of the card such as name, age, nationality, whether a person has a right to work, and a unique number; a secure encrypted chip will contain a unique personal biometric identifier; cards will be linked to a national secure database; and biometrics will be incorporated into forthcoming passport cards - a plain card will be available for those people who have no passport.

The cards will cost an estimated £3.50 per year per person and there will be concessions to those in low income groups, over 75s and will be free the first time to 16-year-olds. Beyond the age of 75 it will be free for life.

Primary legislation would be required for a national ID card scheme. It would set out clear rules on the use of the ID card system and protections against invasion of privacy.

The UK is already working on upgrading passports that will include chips containing biometric data to meet tough international security requirements. From October 2004, only holders of biometric visas will be able to enter the USA, and countries like the UK will have to develop biometric passports.

(gmcg)