Dundee Labour MP's support of compulsory ID cards criticised by Liberal Democrats

Dundee Liberal Democrat City Council Group Leader, Cllr Fraser Macpherson, has said he is very disappointed with news that, earlier this week, the Government has staved off a backbench rebellion to reverse changes imposed on the controversial ID Cards Bill by peers.

On the key vote, the Commons backed government proposals to force people to get cards when they apply for passports or driving licences. Only 20 Labour MPs joined LibDems and Conservatives in the opposition lobby and the Lords amendment was rejected by a majority of 31. Unfortunately, the Labour MP for Dundee West voted with the Government.

Cllr Macpherson said, "The Labour Party gave a pledge in its manifesto to introduce only voluntary identity cards and its very clear that Labour has broken this pledge.

"It appears that the only way in which people will be able to opt out of the system is by giving up their right to travel abroad.

"It is very obvious that there is mounting concern across the country about both the principle of compulsory ID cards and also their cost. I am very disappointed that the local Labour MP in Dundee West has backed this costly threat to civil liberties," concluded Cllr Macpherson.

Related Links

• Government staves off ID rebels - BBC report on debate
• House of Commons - Identity Cards Bill (Consideration of Lords Amendments) - Dundee West Labour MP supports government ID cards
• Dundee LibDem Convener says "No to ID cards in 2006" - Story from January 2006
• Dundee LibDems say - "National ID Cards: No Thank You!" - Story from July 2005