To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what cost-benefit analysis has been made, in relation to the possible introduction of universal identity cards analagous to those in force in other countries, of the likely expenditure set against the implications for the convenience and protection of the public.

No such analysis has been undertaken. That would, in itself, be an expensive exercise and we have no reason to think the practical benefits to be obtained from the introduction of a universal identity card system would be commensurate with what would undoubtedly be the substantial cost of introducing it. No difficulties emerged when national identity cards were withdrawn in 1952, and the police have not asked for their reintroduction.