Similarly, everyone must become an organ donor by default, unless you specifically opt out. That is just a short step from everyone must be an organ donor unless a government bureaucracy gives you permission to opt out. But they will not give permission because the “need” is so great.

But they promised also that there would be an “IND enhanced employee checking service available for employers” (p.25). Has anyone seen any sign of that service? Which was meant to be available by June 2007, by the way, four months ago? It isn’t available, is it? Otherwise we would be knee-deep in self-congratulatory press releases.

It’s all very well IPS and the CRB congratulating themselves on their A-OKness. But IPS are actually meant to be doing some real work. That’s what they’re paid for. As it is, they seem to be so busy congratulating themselves that there isn’t any time left for the work.

Will Rt Hon Jacqui Smith MP read the riot act? Will the Permanent Secretary live up to his nickname — “the assassin” — and knock a few heads together?

IPS may not be frightened of us, the public. Or of the Permanent Secretary. Or of the Home Secretary. But they had better shape up when it comes to meeting their EU commitments. Those boys levy fines. Ask DEFRA. They were fined £400m for failing to pay farmers on time. And what do fines mean? They mean no money left to mend the drains. Cue foot and mouth. They mean reduced budgets, fewer trips to the seaside for IPS.

We’re all watching your progress, IPS, with great interest, A-OK!

CRB checks are unpopular with everyone who has to use them – it is a win-win situation to say that ID cards will make them more palatable. Win-win for everyone but the public.