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Identity Cards Bill

My Lords, if a DNA sample is properly taken, it is the characteristic that is capable of being used for identifying a person. These days the techniques are such that, whereas DNA analysis started off with the chances being one in 1 million, they are now one in 1 billion. Those statistics were quoted last weekend in relation to the Thai fishermen and the dreadful case that took place in Thailand. They have had great experience in that country in identifying people through the use of DNA as a result of the tsunami, and their techniques are well developed. It may be that at some future time it will be thought right that everyone in this country should have their DNA recorded on a central register. We would obviously oppose that, as we oppose the whole concept of identity cards anyway, but if the Government were to seek the power to put DNA on the register, they should have to come to Parliament in order specifically to get primary legislation, after full debate, to that effect. I know that it is not the intention of the Minister to introduce DNA at this time. However, some way must be found which would prevent a future government, or this Government at some future time, introducing DNA on to the register as a result of a misinterpretation of the Government’s intention due to the wording of the subsection.