Biometric ID cards may not succeed

LONDON, Nov. 21 (UPI) -- A plan to introduce biometric identification cards in Britain may not stop people from getting extra cards under different names.

Under the proposed plan, every Briton would have to carry an ID card containing biometric information, such as an iris scan. Cards could then be checked against a central database to confirm the holder's identity.

But Simon Davies, an expert in information systems at the London School of Economics, told New Scientist Friday the system would not stop people getting extra cards under different names.

Other countries and organizations, including the International Civil Aviation Organization, are planning to introduce similar ID schemes, and from October 2004 travelers to the United States will be required to have a biometric visa.