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Identity Cards Bill

As always, my hon. Friend makes good sense. She goes to the essence of the matter. This is not a proper voluntary scheme; it is compulsory, which is the only way that it can work. Will the Home Secretary listen to the other place, and to the public, and trust his own judgment? If, as he believes, he can convince the public of the importance of identity cards, he should trust them and let them volunteer for the scheme. The Bill does not trust the public; in effect, it asks them to be compelled to sign up for the cards.