NUS EXPRESSES CONCERN AT GOVERNMENT’S ID CARD PLAN FOR STUDENTS

Commenting on the Government’s plan to introduce ID cards for young people on a ‘voluntary’ basis, NUS President Gemma Tumelty said:

“We are extremely concerned at the Government’s plan to use young people and students as guinea pigs for their ID card scheme.

“They say that the card will be ‘voluntary’, but those students who decide not to have an ID card may encounter difficulties when applying for student loans and bank accounts. Student loans are an essential service, so we have to question just how ‘voluntary’ this system will be in practice.

“We would also be concerned for the safety of students’ personal information if they were coerced into entering the ID card system in this way.

“We look forward to engaging in the consultation on this issue, and will make sure the Government is aware of students’ concerns.”

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