Written question asked by Lord Pickles (Conservative) on Tuesday, 8 July 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 10 July 2008. It was answered by Meg Hillier (Labour) on Wednesday, 26 November 2008 on behalf of the Home Office.

Identity Cards: Local Authorities

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what role local authorities will play in the operation of the National Identity Card scheme (a) under current plans and (b) if ID cards are made compulsory.

Answer: As set out in the National Identity Scheme Delivery Plan, the Government are keen to use existing assets and infrastructure, where appropriate, to deliver the scheme. The precise detail of roll-out plans has yet to be finalised as has the role that local authorities could play, if local authorities choose.However, local authorities already require people to produce proof of identity in order to access their services and identity cards will provide a more convenient way for those entitled to services to access them, and help to prevent unauthorised access, from the beginning of the scheme.

Secondary information