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ID 'action plan' to be published Rethink on ID card computer plan
(about 2 hours later)
The Home Secretary is preparing to publish an action plan for the UK's controversial identity card scheme. The government has abandoned plans to build a new computer system as part of the national identity cards scheme.
John Reid will also issue an update on the country's border controls. Instead information will be held on three existing and separate databases.
Home Secretary John Reid denied this was a "u-turn" saying it would save money, lead to greater efficiency and lower the risk of fraud.
He also announced plans to fingerprint and photograph all foreign nationals living the UK as well as those entering the country, from 2008.
Ministers say ID cards will help tackle illegal immigration, identity fraud and terrorism. The action plan will also look at other potential benefits.Ministers say ID cards will help tackle illegal immigration, identity fraud and terrorism. The action plan will also look at other potential benefits.
ID cards are due from 2009, becoming compulsory with passports from 2010. Critics question their cost and the impact on civil liberties.ID cards are due from 2009, becoming compulsory with passports from 2010. Critics question their cost and the impact on civil liberties.
Prime Minister Tony Blair has previously said the action plan would "explore the benefits" people could get from ID cards in 10 years' time.
The card will contain basic identification information including the name, address, gender, date of birth and photo of the cardholder.The card will contain basic identification information including the name, address, gender, date of birth and photo of the cardholder.
A microchip would also hold biometric information - a person's fingerprints or iris or facial scans, which are unique to the individual.A microchip would also hold biometric information - a person's fingerprints or iris or facial scans, which are unique to the individual.