HC Deb 11 June 1999 vol 332 c406W
Mr. Rendel

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security if he will list the powers he has to confiscate(a) passports, (b) national insurance cards and (c) driving licences. [86665]

Mr. Timms

The Secretary of State for Social Security has no express powers to confiscate passports, national insurance cards or driving licences. However, these documents remain the property of Her Majesty's Government. If the Secretary of State has concerns that such a document may be forged, altered or stolen, he may retain it. A receipt is issued and the appropriate authority notified.