WITH regard to Ian Oliver's letter and his protestations about ID cards (Letters, October 27), I can tell you that identity theft is the fastest-growing crime in the world.

If it happens to you it will take years to clear your name and get back your good credit worthiness.

I now live in the USA and they have pictures on driving licences just like has been introduced in UK. I carry both.

Think of all the kids buying alcohol and cigarettes that could be prevented by just flashing a driving licence from your wallet.

It is narrow-minded people like Mr Oliver that can't see the big picture.

Allan Phillips,

Boise,

Idaho, USA.

Updated: 09:36 Friday, October 29, 2004