Identity Cards Bill

I thank the Minister for giving way. She said that my fears were unfounded by pointing to Clause 18, which provides a prohibition on requirements to produce identity cards. But I believe that she would agree that the state of affairs that she described is true while the scheme remains voluntary—and we on these Benches want just that. But the moment the scheme becomes compulsory or there is a designation of passports, requiring an ID card to be issued—that is, when designation is followed—the Minister’s argument falls. Clause 18 is subject to subsection (2), and subsection (2)(c) says,"““where the individual is of a description of individuals who are subject to compulsory registration””." So the moment the scheme becomes compulsory, everyone will be subject to the threat that I described.