Mike Penning (Hemel Hempstead) (Con): Will the Leader of the House urgently find Government time to address the problems of identity fraud that are occurring throughout the country? Last year, it is estimated that 135,000 people had their identity stolen and had to pay up to £8,000 to have it legally returned. Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the matter urgently as it appears to threaten more than 1 million people?
Mr. Hoon: The Government share entirely the hon. Gentleman's concern about identity fraud. It is a problem for both the public sector and, crucially, the private sector, which is one of the reasons why the Government are bringing forward proposals for a system of identity cards. So on the next occasion that we debate the matter in the House, I look forward to the hon. Gentleman's support, otherwise he is simply raising issues with no intention of doing anything about them. |
