Blunkett giving 'high priority' to compulsory ID cards

Plans to issue compulsory identity cards are being drawn up by the Government in the aftermath of the American terrorist atrocities.

David Blunkett, the Home Secretary, confirmed that the idea was being urgently examined as the centrepiece of a fresh package of anti-terrorist measures. With ministers considering draconian proposals to give extra powers to police and secret service officers, he conceded that the recently implemented Human Rights Act might have to be amended.

Although a survey yesterday revealed overwhelming public support for identity cards, the plan will arouse fierce opposition from civil liberties groups.

Mr Blunkett said he was giving "a fairly high priority" to the question of identity cards. However, he revealed the Government's thinking when he agreed that a system of voluntary cards would be pointless. "Without pre-empting any final decision, I do think it's worth me just saying that I think a voluntary card in the present circumstances would not be a great deal of help," he told BBC1's On The Record.

Mr Blunkett confirmed Tony Blair was considering a fresh package of measures to strengthen security. They are understood to include new powers for police to arrest terrorist suspects for interrogation, a reduction in appeal rights for immigrantsand the power to use transcripts of calls bugged by MI5 as evidence in court.

Mr Blair will hold meetings in Downing Street today with MPs from all parties to explain the Government's strategy. It is unlikely, however, that MPs will be recalled to the Commons.