ID database fears ahead of debate

The Scottish Government has reiterated its opposition to ID cards after fears plans to open up some details in NHS records to other public services would lead to their introduction by the back door.

MSPs will debate the plan later after a government consultation closed last week. Last night Deputy First Minister John Swinney said “under this Scottish Government there will never be ID cards or anything remotely resembling them”.

No new database would be created under the plans, he said, but sharing information would help trace missing people, assist access to services and help HMRC complete the tax register.

The proposals currently require only the approval of a Holyrood committee, but the Scottish Liberal Democrats have tabled a motion today which will call for the plans to be scrutinised in primary legislation.

Leader Willie Rennie said the SNP had “taken their eye off the ball” while the civil service had drawn up the plans. Calling for cross party support, he said: “The SNP joined us in 2005 to oppose the creation of ID cards. The Conservatives supported our efforts to repeal the legislation. And Scottish Labour have supported our motion against this proposal.”