§ Mr. BatisteTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what consideration his Department has given to the introduction by banks of photo-identity bank cards with a tamper-proof, laser-etched signature as a possible model for the introduction of a universal photo-identity card scheme in the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. JackThe introduction of photographs on cheque and credit cards was recommended in the Home Office crime prevention unit paper 26, "Preventing Cheque and Credit Card Fraud", which was published in 1991. I understand, however, that although some banks and building societies have now introduced such cards, including laser-engraved signatures, there is not general agreement among the financial institutions that these provide the most effective way of combatting the problem of fraud.
The particular technical solutions adopted to tackle cheque and credit card fraud must be a commercial decision which lies with the banks and the retail sector. The Home Office will, however, continue to do what it can to encourage full co-operation and communication between all those bodies which have an interest in tackling this problem.
The introduction of an identity card scheme is a separate issue, and one which is kept under review. However, the Government are not at present persuaded 241W that the benefits of issuing identity cards outweigh the disadvantages and costs. The question of possible models does not therefore arise.