37. Major Lloydasked the Minister of Health whether in view of the fact that the system of national registration of citizens is no longer necessary, and in view of the work and expense involved in the replacement annually of some 1,000,000 identity cards, he will now consider the abolition of identity cards.
§ Mr. BevanThe National Registration system continues to render a number of valuable services. The small cost of replacing identity cards is largely met by fees charged for replacement.
§ Mr. John HayWhat are the "valuable services" which are now rendered by these cards?
§ Mr. BevanNational Service, security, rationing, the Health Service, family allowances and post-war credits.
Major LloydIn view of the fact that the last reason, at any rate, does not apply in any way, will the right hon. Gentleman not reconsider this matter?
§ Mr. BevanI should have thought that hon. Members opposite would be anxious to preserve the records, anyway.