THE debate about ID cards will rage on and the Government will eventually get its own way. They usually do by fair means or foul.

What upsets and annoys me is that when they finally bully us all into carrying a piece of plastic to prove our existence, they are going to make us pay for the privilege. Something like about £40 each, I believe.

I don't know how some of the poorer or larger families will view that prospect. But if we are forced into carrying ID cards (issued for the benefit of Government agencies), then they should be free.

The same should apply for those cards that are lost, copied or stolen, as eventually no doubt some will because we all know that despite the utmost efforts of those who know best, plastic card fraud is a growth industry.

K E Fisher,

Rydal Avenue,

Burnholme,

York.

Updated: 10:24 Friday, November 07, 2003