There is a system problem

Anthony Barnett (London, OK):   Like Jon, I am not convinced that the disk debacle will lead to the government abandoning its ID schemes. But one good aspect of the disaster is that attention is now being focussed on the database state and the holding of information rather than the ID card itself. Two recent posts on the issues are by Unity in Liberal Conspiracy and also Dizzy whom Unity links to. The techies are getting cross at the superficial politicisation and blame game that is underway. Nonetheless, guys, there is a system problem. It is one the government, ie Gordon Brown and his advisors and fellow ministers, must be aware of but have not been able to confront let alone solve. This is the chronic inability of the Civil Service. Fiasco is its maiden name. Don't forget, it was a government laboratory that made and released the foot and mouth virus earlier this year because, despite the funding being available, it could keep its drains in order - while making toxic and contagious viruses!