IT is somewhat strange that the terrible atrocities in the United States have prompted new calls for identity cards to be introduced in this country.

Strange because it was glaring lapses in security, rather than issues of identification, which allowed the suicide hijackers to seize control of four passenger jets.

As an immediate response, authorities in the US and in Britain must take steps to improve surveillance of suspected terrorists and improve security at airport terminals.

Never again must airliners be allowed to be such easy prey for terrorists.

Extra time spent in check-in procedures seems a small price to pay for safety.

In terms of priority in the aftermath of the New York and Washington tragedies, the issue of identity cards is relatively low.

There is no need for a knee-jerk response from our Government in this matter. The efforts of ministers will be better used in the introduction of effective anti-terrorism measures.

Too often in the past we have been rushed into flawed legislation. Identity cards bring with them constitutional questions of civil liberty and should not be issued without careful consideration.

However, serious examination of the matter should not be delayed indefinitely.

On balance we believe identity cards should be issued. The benefits in the fight against crime and terrorism outweigh the concerns over freedom.

A system can surely be devised which can strike an acceptable balance between protection and individual liberty.

After all we live in a modern world which will struggle to function without people providing means of identification.

We have bankers' cards, credit cards, driving licences and passports; all of which provide more sensitive information than a single identity card ever could.

A new opinion poll recognises this, and shows hefty support for cards to be issued.

The suggestion that cards could violate human rights is verging on paranoia.

Used responsibly, identity cards will hold no fear for law-abiding individuals. The only people who will fear their introduction are individuals intent on committing crime or acts of terrorism.