SO S Arundell wants ID cards to be made compulsory as in the Second World War (October 20). The problem is that such cards can be easily lost, stolen or forged.

If the British Government really wants its citizens to carry a unique personal identifier at all times, I suggest a person's National Insurance number be tattooed on the left forearm at birth.

This would eliminate theft and loss. If the number was also bar-coded on the back of the left hand, quick computer-scanning would identify everyone, very useful for paying pension and welfare benefits, locating people etc.

The word "handout" would take on a new meaning.

I can't see how the civil libertarians could object.

Annie Wright

Love Lane,

Birmingham.

Updated: 11:02 Saturday, October 25, 2003