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Business of the House

As the Prime Minister reminded the House yesterday, 22 of the 25 European countries have ID cards. One of the best ways of protecting against identity fraud is secure, checkable identity verification via biometric data, and that is what ID cards would provide. The hon. Gentleman will be able to raise the issue in Home Office questions next Monday. The hon. Gentleman suggested a subject for a topical debate next week. I shall accept that as a representation. He also raised the question of the 28 days’ detention, and the Government’s discussion of whether the period should be extended. He will be able to raise that issue during Monday’s Home Office questions as well. However, I remind him that if we are advised by the head of the Association of Chief Police Officers, by the Government’s independent reviewer Lord Carlile and by the Metropolitan Police Commissioner that there is a case for extension, and if we can be satisfied that there are sufficient safeguards, it will be right for us proceed. I hope that we shall be able to reach all-party agreement. Perhaps the House recalls that although the Conservative party wants to abolish it, we introduced the Human Rights Act 1998 to ensure that whatever proposals the House may come up with, people’s human rights and civil liberties are protected. The hon. Gentleman asked about BAE Systems and the investigation by the Serious Fraud Office. On numerous occasions the House has been given information about the cessation of one particular inquiry in that respect. No doubt the Foreign Secretary will make a report following the Commonwealth conference. Finally, may I express my condolences to the hon. Gentleman for the loss of his mother?