Publisher's Synopsis
Following continuing public and parliamentary interest in identity cards, this report considers what an identity card might be able to achieve, and some of the characteristics it must have to be effective. The problems associated with introducing identity cards are addressed, namely civil liberties implications and the costs, and the implications of a compulsory card. The overall conclusion of this inquiry is that a system based on a combined driving licence/voluntary identity card will deliver very real benefits, both to society as a whole and directly to the individual, but there are a number of conditions that must be satisfied first. Also available: Volume II, "Minutes of Evidence and Appendices, HCP 172-II", ISBN 0-10-246896-6.
