Confusion still reigns within the UK government over plans for a national ID card. Home Secretary David Blunkett (the Minister of Internal Affairs) has continued to push his scheme despite opposition from Cabinet colleagues.

Though it is unclear whether carrying a card would be mandatory, Blunkett said at the very least no-one should be able to work or claim benefits without one.

While little principled opposition seems to exist within the government, the Treasury has refused to fund the cards. The Home Office has therefore suggested that citizens should be forced to pay around 60 Euro each to obtain a card. Independent cost estimates are far higher, at around 140 Euro per card.

Blunkett pushes ID cards debate (21.09.2003)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/3126540.stm