1. Papers please.
- Subjects
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IDENTIFICATION cards , *REFUGEE passports , *ADMISSION of nonimmigrants , *NATIONAL security , *INTERNAL security - Abstract
THE British tend to be uncomfortable about the idea of the state keeping tabs on them. Compulsory identity cards, in use during two world wars, were quickly abandoned in peacetime. Seven years ago, a Conservative home secretary, Michael Howard, was forced into a humiliating retreat after failing to convince colleagues that the time and the technology were ripe for another attempt. Given this history, it is hardly surprising that the current home secretary, David Blunkett, is approaching the issue cautiously. The home secretary is now pressing the case for a universal ID card, using the 80m passports and driving licences now in circulation as the basis for a national register. Illegal immigration is one reason why Mr Blunkett is so keen on the idea. Support for ID cards was part of the deal Mr Blunkett did recently with the French interior minister, Nicolas Sarkozy, to close the Sangatte refugee camp, because the French believe that their absence encourages immigrants. Blunkett's other main claim for a national ID card is that it would help tackle identity fraud.
- Published
- 2002