I have little objection to identity cards, its the underlying database I object to, in the sure and certain knowledge that records WILL be misfiled; innocent people will at best suffer huge inconvenience at the hands of bureaucratic incompetance and indifference; and crimes will continue to be committed and go undetected. It cannot be said often enough that the proposed British scheme is far more intrusive than anything ever tried before, meaning it will be more complex and thuis more subject to error, whether accidental or deliberate. Organised crime will be selling "clean" database entries as soon as the system is implemented and, if you really have nothing to hide, your records will be worth buying. When the person who has stolen your identity commits a crime you had better hope you have a water tight alibi because it will be almost impossible to defend yourself.

I have done work in the care industry where, last year 2,500 people were victims of an "error" that meant they were unable to start jobs for which they had been recruited and for which they were qualified. The Criminal Records Bureau wrongly returned positive results for their CRB checks, meaning they were not allowed to work with children or vulnerable adults. The CRB excused itself claiming it had applied the precautionary principal. That's alright then - 2,500 people were denied the right to earn an honest living, provide for themselves and their families and do jobs which they found rewarding (no one works in care for the money) because of a government "error". I do not for a moment believe such errors will disappear if/when the national ID database is up and running, if anything they will increase. More people will be denied the right to earn a living, or to travel, or even of freedom itself (computer says you are guilty - you're nicked sonny!).

I had a CRB check (recently expired and not renewed as I have changed jobs) which demonstrates that I have nothing to hide, but I know I have everything to fear.