The big question

Do you support the introduction of compulsory ID
cards?   

Len Smith
Gypsy activist

Arguments for ID cards are insidiously pervasive rather than
genuinely persuasive. The cheats will find ways around but the
vulnerable will feel the brunt of compulsory IDcards. Asking the
public to pay for what will be a control mechanism for governments
and private sector is like asking the slave to pay for his own
manacles.

Karen Shook
Disability equality adviser

I would be happy to carry one but it could be open to abuse by the
authorities and used to harass certain groups like ethnic
minorities. It won’t work unless it is compulsory, and it would be
unfair to charge people for something they have to carry by law –
although we have to pay for passports.

Kierra Box
Young people’s campaigner

I am highly suspicious of ID cards. I worry about the danger of
loss or theft, and how I might survive before my card was reissued.
I worry about the cost of my ID. I worry about the consequences of
living in a country where these cards may be used to gather
information on, and track, particular social or cultural
groups.

Angie Lawrence
Single parent

I think ID cards are a good idea. If you have nothing to hide why
would it be a problem? Hopefully it would help ensure that only
those entitled to benefits could claim them – it really jars with
me that some people cheat the system. But I don’t support the idea
of charging for cards – that would cut out too many people.