Identity Cards

Whilst the Police Federation of England and Wales supports the implementation of a mandatory system of identity cards, it is our belief that their initial introduction should be on a voluntary basis. We consider that greater awareness of the benefits of identity cards will help to increase their level of public support.
The Police Federation has backed an identity card scheme for over a decade, not as a knee-jerk reaction to any one specific or emotive event, but following objective appraisal. Unfortunately, all too often the case for identity cards is not pushed hard enough for fear that their introduction would be seen as infringement of peoples’ civil liberties. However carrying identity cards brings benefits to us all. If an individual is stopped by the police, they would be able to confirm their identity instantly; the result of which is that they would not have to report to a police station – a lengthy process that would amount to a far greater infringement of their liberty.

Although they would undoubtedly create another hurdle for terrorists we have never claimed them to be a panacea for all forms of criminality. Nevertheless, we live in an age in which security will be paramount for the foreseeable future and all available measures should therefore be taken.

Other advantages exist including the added security individuals benefit from, by freeing up police time, helping in the prevention of fraud, reducing the problems of bogus callers as well as providing proof of age for pubs, clubs and other age-restricted areas.

There will need to be a constant review of procedures to ensure that identity cards cannot be forged and that legitimate possession is as secure as possible.

In reality misconceptions about identity cards simply do not stand up to scrutiny. They are a tried and tested law enforcement tool abroad and would make Britain a safer place in which to live, work or visit.

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