Welsh Liberal Democrats say "no" to ID cards

11.31.03am UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 9th Feb 2007

The Welsh Liberal Democrats have issued a guarantee today that ID will not be required to receive services under any Government that they are a part of.

The Assembly does not have the powers to prevent the Westminster Government insisting on their use when claiming benefits, but it could decide that they would not be needed to access public services.

Kirsty Williams, Welsh Liberal Democrat for Brecon and Radnorshire, said: "The people of Wales have been vocal in their opposition to ID cards. It is frustrating that the Assembly does not have the power to prevent their introduction completely, but my party is committed to do as much as it can to negate the harmful impact that these cards could have.

"A Welsh Liberal Democrat government would ensure that people continue to receive health treatment based on their needs, and not be turned away because they have left their card at home. I do not believe ID cards will be effective in combating terrorism or identity fraud - they are simply a shocking waste of taxpayers' money. We do not want them in Wales, and the Welsh Liberal Democrats will do everything in our power to defend our freedoms."