Backdoor ID cards will not be required by Assembly - German

1.32.09pm GMT Mon 6th Nov 2006

Welsh Liberal Democrat Assembly Leader Mike German today fired a warning shot against Tony Blair's plans to introduce ID cards by stealth.

Wales does not need ID Cards

Writing in the Daily Telegraph this morning, Mr Blair said that ID cards will be compulsory for overseas nationals wishing to work or access public services in the UK. Welsh Liberal Democrats have consistently opposed the introduction of ID cards and secured cross-party Assembly backing to guarantee ID cards would not be required to access public services in Wales.

Mr German said: "What Tony Blair is trying to do is introduce ID cards by stealth. By starting with immigrants, he will introduce the mechanisms for all of us to carry these cards, without frightening the public. It is an act of pure cynicism.

"However, the UK government must remember that Wales and Scotland are different. We may not have the powers in the Assembly to prevent their introduction for claiming benefits, but in terms of accessing public services, Wales has already said no. We must continue to say no. Welsh Liberal Democrats will continue to resist this policy.

"If I am in government next year, I will ensure that people continue to receive health treatment based on their needs, not on whether they have a piece of plastic in their wallets or purses. The NHS in Wales will not turn away the sick because they don't look like their picture, or their card is at home.

"I do not believe ID cards will be effective in combating terrorism, or identity fraud. They also cost more than £5.5billion. As the government's arguments have shifted, ID cards have become a solution looking for a problem. We do not want them in Wales, and I will do everything in my power to defend our freedoms."