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Identity Cards Bill

In most cases, it will not give access to the register. Most organisations which are seeking proof of identity will not, in most circumstances, have access to the register—particularly commercial organisations, as I explained yesterday to the noble Lord, Lord Phillips, when he raised that very question. As I was trying to explain before the noble and learned Lord’s intervention, it will be a document of immense value to people. It will provide the easy, visual facility on the card to show that you are who you say you are. The card contains an ID number and the person seeking the information will be able readily and easily to identify you. If the individual finds that intrusive and thinks that an excessive request is being made, he will have a choice, particularly if he is dealing with a commercial organisation, whether he wishes to take his trade elsewhere. If he is dealing with a public service, and that public service body is authorised to have access to the register, the card and the number will enable his identity to be verified very easily indeed. So while I understand the concern behind the amendment, we do not share it. We see the card as having a value to individuals, and it will help them in their everyday lives.