Identity Cards Bill

I want to make only a few simple comments. I strongly object to the amendments, not because they take away two clauses—like my hon. and learned Friend the Member for Harborough (Mr. Garnier), I can understand that—but because I do not welcome the Government’s adoption of a de minimis approach. As I explained to the Minister, who is not present at the moment, the amendments make absolutely no difference to the principles involved. For practical purposes, this is just an exercise in tactical retreat. There is no difference between what is being said now and what was said on Second Reading, when my Front-Bench colleagues produced what could be described as the excruciating sound of reverse gears. I am glad, because there were issues of principle, but in this context my point about the Government is much more important.