IT professionals appear split over the introduction of identity
cards, with slightly more coming out against the planned scheme
than in support of its introduction.
The government’s poor record in delivering against major IT
projects was widely commented on, as was the likely cost of
implementation, which respondents said need to be measured against
provable benefits.
“It is a very expensive exercise and unless the benefits can be
realised and the flaws in the system minimised, the expense will be
very hard to justify,” said one IT consultant.
“In theory, national identity cards sound like a good idea, but
I am concerned their flaws will be exposed very quickly,
potentially rendering them redundant.”
Alongside doubts over the viability, cost and security of the
technology, respondents were also concerned about the potential
threat posed to civil liberties.
Austin Brann, an internet consultant at Clipstone Media, said he
felt there was the potential for misuse by government bodies.
Others pointed out that the justification for introducing the
cards rested on issues of national security and the terrorist
threat, but noted that identity cards had not been proven to be an
effective tool in preventing terrorism.
“Spain has employed a compulsory ID card scheme for years, yet
it is most certainly not free of terrorism,” noted one respondent.
“France, Germany and Italy all have similar issues with their
schemes.”