Blunkett in ID card row with privacy watchdog

David Blunkett was today embroiled in a new row over the Government's plan for ID cards.

The Home Secretary's official spokesman attacked a privacy watchdog for "grandstanding" criticism of the proposal.

Information Commissioner Richard Thomas yesterday said he felt "increasing alarm" at the Home Office's plans to force everyone to pay ?40 for a high-tech card.

He told the Home Affairs Select Committee he was surprised at the ID card Bill published recently, warning that as currently drafted it could seriously undermine individual liberty and privacy.

But, in what critics called an extraordinary personal attack on the Commissioner, the Home Secretary's spokesman claimed Mr Thomas had failed to tell Mr Blunkett directly of his concerns, and had engaged in "a bit of grandstanding" in front of MPs.

"He shouldn't be surprised by the Bill because it is a very accurate representation of what we said two years ago," he added.

"The Commissioner is perfectly entitled to his own views, but is not on a plinth beyond criticism."

Shadow Home Secretary David Davis called the attack "irresponsible".

The Information Commissioner oversees the Data Protection Act. His duties include " developing respect for the private lives of individuals".