On Fri, 29 Aug 2008 10:34:31 +0100, "M.I.5¾"
wrote:
> I have no problem with an identity card scheme as a principle. In fact most
> of us already have one or more ID documents (passport, driving licence etc.)
> that are entirely adequate to the purpose for which they were introduced
> (the chip in the current passport is a bit unnecessary).
What is a non-driver with no passport to use? And IMO passports are too
bulky for general use as ID anyway*. In the USA many (all?) states offer
non-driving licenses for ID purposes but the DVLA does not offer that
service (even when spelt licence). It is clear some fairly reliable form
of ID is needed by the government just for the control of their benefits
distribution systems and I am unclear that anything useable already exists.
* Because of bulk the USA is about to start offering Passport Cards. The
main purpose is for use in land travel across the borders with Canada and
Mexico but I presume they will eventually be accepted far more generally.
Tony
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