ISLAND MP Andrew Turner is canvassing Isle of Wight residents on whether they feel identity cards should be made compulsory.

Mr Turner is asking for comments about moves to introduce a national identity card following Home Secretary David Blunkett's calls for legislation on ID cards.

Mr Turner said: "I've always been against identity cards on the grounds that Britons fought two world wars so that they would remain free to walk the streets of their country without having to prove who they are to the authorities.

"But it is clear, from David Blunkett's admission that he "hasn't a clue" how many illegal immigrants there are in the country, that we now face something approaching a national emergency."

Anyone wanting to give their views to Mr Turner should respond by writing to him at 24 The Mall, Carisbrooke Road, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 1BW.