§ Mr. LidingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what consultations the Government have carried out with the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland authorities about the possible introduction of a national identity card; [157386]
(2) what his policy is towards the introduction of a national identity card. [157347]
§ Mr. Mike O'BrienWe believe that, at least for the time being, the costs and risks associated with the introduction of a national identity card would outweigh the benefits. During the assessment of the options there was consultation at official level with the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland authorities; but we have not specifically sought the views of the Scottish Parliament or the Welsh or Northern Ireland Assemblies.