ID Cards Release 3rd July 2002

Responding to the Government proposals on Entitlement Cards this afternoon Karen Bartlett, Director of Charter88, said:

"Without a written constitution UK citizens have no fundamental protection against the gradual erosion of their civil liberties. Other countries that have identity cards such as France and Germany have this safeguard in place."

"Since Labour came to power they have introduced draconian surveillance laws on email and other communications, the recent Anti-Terrorism legislation, new proposals to extend data-sharing between government departments, and the 'Snooper's Charter' abandoned a fortnight ago. A worrying trend is emerging."

"We should not need to carry a card and have our privacy infringed in order to affirm our right as citizens to have use of public services like education and health care. These rights should be embedded within a written constitution."

"There seems to be a lot of confusion as to the purpose of this card. One minute it will prevent illegal working, the next it will allow us to gain access to services, the next it will replace the need to carry round other sources of identification. This scheme is a solution looking for a problem."

Speaking about the prospect for a national identity database she said:

"Although the Government already holds lots of information on us, for the first time all this information might be put in one place. Your file on a national database might contain your medical records, your police records, your benefit entitlements, perhaps even your bank records. Blunkett has suggested that all government departments could make use of this information if they wish. This is a national database writ large. Do we really want the government to be able to type our names into a computer and bring up all of these details?"

Speaking about the distinction made between voluntary and compulsory cards she said:

"If we are going to be asked to show ID cards in order to access services they will become compulsory for those who are most dependent on these services. France has a 'voluntary' ID card scheme, yet 99% of the French population carry their cards with them at all times."

Speaking about the effect of introducing an ID card on particular groups of society she said:

"Identity cards have a disproportionate impact on some members of society, especially ethnic minority groups and those living on low incomes. Experience in France, as well as current police practice in the UK, shows that there is potential for black and Asian people to be discriminated against. Those needing to access services regularly include the elderly and those suffering from mental illness. These groups should not be stigmatised in this way."

Karen Bartlett is available for interview.

The Charter88 Liberty publication 'ID Cards: Arguments Against' is available here.