BMA calls for safeguards on ID cards

Responding to yesterday's Queen's Speech (Tuesday 23 November 2004), Mr James Johnson, chairman of the British Medical Association, warned that legislation to introduce national ID cards must not lead to vulnerable groups being denied access to the NHS.

"The BMA is not opposed to the principle of an identity cards scheme. However, if ID cards are eventually linked to access to health services there is a risk of vulnerable groups, such as the homeless, the elderly, and asylum-seekers, being denied essential treatment. Safeguards must be in place to ensure this does not happen."

Mr Johnson said he was pleased the government was to emphasise the prevention of illness, but disappointed that action to tackle passive smoking will not be taken during this parliamentary session:

"In delaying legislaton to create smoke-free public places the government has missed a huge opportunity. It is just not good enough that the public has to wait until 2008 for a law that could save lives."

On plans to establish a legal framework to help people with limited mental capacity to make decisions about their treatment, Mr Johnson said:

"The BMA is pleased that the Mental Capacity Bill will continue to be considered by Parliament in this session. The BMA has been supportive of the intention to create a comprehensive statutory framework for assisting those with limited capacity to make decisions for themselves wherever possible, and for decisions to be made in their best interests where they lack the capacity to decide. At last, incapacitated people will have a voice."