Citizens get my full backing (From Dorset Echo)

Citizens get my full backing

10:06am Monday 13th February 2012 in Your Letters

FOR many adults of an older persuasion, being asked for proof of age represents more of a vain hope than an irritation and hassle.

For myself, the last time this happened was about four years ago.

My temporary flight of joy being savagely crushed when the gentleman behind me in the queue, who I would judge to have been in his mid-eighties, was similarly questioned.

For young adults however, and for publicans, night club proprietors and shop owners whose livelihoods depend on upholding the law, this is no laughing matter.

All of which brings me to the vexed issue of the United Kingdom Citizencard; something my son applied for when he turned 18.

In order to receive it you have to supply extensive information, have this information verified, and be prepared for the verifier himself to be interviewed by telephone.

Naturally there is a cost involved too.

It has to be said though, that the card itself is impressive: “This card is recognised as valid ID by the Home Office, Scottish government, Police and UK retail and licensee organisations because it contains the Proof of Age Standards Scheme (PASS) hologram,” it states.

A trial run in Tesco proved its worth; my son being rightly challenged for age when purchasing alcohol, and permitted to buy it on production of the card.

Unfortunately, his experience when trying to enter pubs and nightclubs with his friends was not as satisfactory: none of them recognised the card as valid.

Following up this matter, my query at Weymouth Police Station resulted in confirmation that, as far as the police are concerned, the Citizencard is an absolutely valid form of ID.

The police officer I spoke to further stated that, at the next meeting, she would be reminding Pubwatch that this was the case.

I trust I have made it clear that I completely sympathise with anyone whose role necessitates establishing a young person’s age.

In support of their laudable actions, it would seem right and proper to accept the Citizencard.

Asking young people to carry their driving licences and passports around on a Friday and Saturday night is surely not terribly desirable.

Richard Pask, Chickerell Road, Chickerell