Digital ID cards and the BBC

 Digital ID cards and the BBC

Dear BBC, 

    You have not covered yourselves in glory this morning (14th Jan 2026) over the question of Digital ID cards. I have not heard a single argument either in favour or against. 

    I have many digital ID cards: my passport, my driving licence, my bus-pass, my senior railcard. In addition, I have an identifying number for my social security, and another for my National Health Service. I have no objection to these or any new card in terms of 'privacy' or 'big-brother'. But the issue is not about me. It is about someone who turns up on the beach at Dover without a passport. 

    As far as the BBC is concerned the only story they felt safe with was a question of a 'U'-turn by the government. Are we really so trivial? 

    I can see that a back-bench Labour MP might wonder how ID cards are essential one day but not the next. But why is there a dilemma for such an MP between party loyalty and dignity. Why do they not listen to the arguments for and against and vote for what they think is right for the country? Derrh!

    But perhaps Lord Blunkett is right; the government is seriously weak in communicating with its back benches; and indeed with the media and the public. 

    I can tell you what I think when I have heard the arguments, for and against.