The loss of the 2010 general election by the Labour party was tragic for our country in many ways, but one particularly unfortunate by-product was the cancellation of the national identity card scheme (Tony Blair urges Starmer to keep grip on immigration to tackle rise of far right, 9 July).
The issuing of identity cards would enhance national security in the areas of terrorism, immigration and policing; facilitate access to online government services for the less well-off; help to stop identity theft; and facilitate international travel.
It is ironic that Sir Nick Clegg, as a key figure in the coalition government, was adamant about “killing” ID cards on the “big brother is watching you” ticket, bearing in mind his employment on leaving politics.
Alan West
Labour, House of Lords; former Home Office minister for security and counter-terrorism
• Have an opinion on anything you’ve read in the Guardian today? Please email us your letter and it will be considered for publication in our letters section.
