...from Monday's Sunday Times UK. ----------- Xeni Jardin xeni@xeni.net | www.xeni.net | YIM: xeni_jardin ---------------------------------------- MONDAY SEPTEMBER 24 2001 Blunkett wants ID cards for all BY MELISSA KITE, STEWART TENDLER AND DANIEL MCGRORY http://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/0,,2-2001331435,00.html RIGID security measures, including compulsory identity cards for all Britons, are being drawn up by ministers as part of the global war against terrorism. David Blunkett, the Home Secretary, confirmed yesterday that tough legislation, which could breach human rights laws, would be brought before MPs soon. Britain, he said, must throw down the gauntlet to terrorists as never before. The proposed legislation is thought to include increased powers of arrest for the police to interrogate suspects and moves to abolish some rights of judicial appeal for immigrants turned back at airports. Police may be allowed to arrest people suspected of having knowledge about terrorism, simply to interrogate them. Legislation to allow transcripts of telephone conversations bugged by MI5 to be used as evidence in court is also reported to be under consideration. Mr Blunkett confirmed that identity cards were being considered very seriously indeed. Asked whether they would be voluntary or compulsory, he said: I think a voluntary card in the present circumstances would not be a great deal of help. Speaking on the BBCs On the Record programme, Mr Blunkett said that at least three anti-terror Bills would introduce a range of new police powers, including the increased powers of arrest. Compulsory ID cards would use the latest technology, by scanning the iris of the eye or using thumb or finger-printing. <...>