Identity Cards Bill

I shall read very carefully indeed what the noble Baroness said when I have the opportunity to do so tomorrow. The Minister also referred to the protection offered by the commissioner, which I think comes too late in the day since it would be available only long after the event. I return to my original words. This is intended to be a constructive amendment and one that does not damage the Bill. I noticed with some alarm that my noble and learned friend Lord Lyell of Markyate thought that I opened my remarks by saying that this is a probing amendment. I was careful not to do so because I never intentionally mislead the Committee and I hope that I have never misled noble Lords on these matters. Certainly I would not do so on this occasion. This amendment comes fresh to us but has tested the Government in another place on at least three occasions. The Government’s answer at that stage was the same. It did not persuade my colleagues in another place and it has not persuaded me now. I do not wish to seek a further response before the Report stage and therefore it is right on this occasion to test the opinion of the Committee. On Question, Whether the said amendment (No. 9) shall be agreed to? *Their Lordships divided: Contents, 141; Not-Contents, 126. [Amendment No. 10 not moved.]