Reject ID cards, say Lib-Dems

OLDHAM’S ruling Lib-Dems say the Government’s ID card scheme is a massive waste of billions that will do nothing to prevent terrorism, crime or fraud.

Councillors Mark Alcock and Jackie Stanton have placed a motion to tonight’s council meeting asking the authority to reject ID cards.

It states that the council believes the disadvantages of such a scheme outweigh any benefits to Oldham residents.

The Government estimates the scheme could cost £6 billion, but critics says it could spiral to £18 billion.

Ministers predict it will cost Oldhamers £30 for a standalone ID card, or £93 for a passport and ID card together, but there are fears it could actually cost up to £300.

The motion adds: “This will hit the most vulnerable and poorest in our society, those on low pay, who usually don’t drive, don’t go abroad and as a consequence have no need for a driving licence or passport, yet will be forced to pay up to £100 for a card they don’t want or need.”

The motion calls on the council to take no part in any pilot scheme or feasibility work to introduce them and make it a policy to ensure the cards are not required to access council services or benefits unless specifically called to do so by legislation.

Councillor Alcock said: “The Labour Government is spending billions of pounds on an ID card scheme that is not wanted, will not work and will not stop terrorist and fraud.

“As we have seen over the last few years the Government has lost thousands of pieces of personal information. I don’t believe that anyone in Oldham will have any confidence that the information contained on the ID cards will be safe.”