The Government has won the first two Commons' votes on controversial ID cards. The first victory was on whether to make the cards compulsory, following further legislation. The second, more contentious, was on whether it would be compulsory to register individuals' details on a central database.
The Lords had tabled an amendment that could have made the ID card scheme entirely voluntary. But the Government prevailed by 310 to 279 votes, a majority of 31.
A third decision is due later tonight, on whether the Government should report the cards' costs to the Commons.
However, the Labour benches have been missing a vital MP. Tony Blair was not be there because he has been delayed in South Africa.
The vote on ID cards was seen as one of the biggest tests of his authority since becoming Prime Minister.
Mr Blair was absent last month when the Government slumped - by just one vote - to the third Commons defeat of his reign. He faces further tests this week with votes on controversial plans for a smoking ban and tougher anti-terror laws.
http://www.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30000-13506193,00.html
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