Clause 30 - Providing false information
Identity Cards Bill
4:15 pm
Mr David Curry (Skipton and Ripon, Conservative)
It is important that the common understanding of the meaning of the word should not diverge too far from the strict legal understanding of its meaning. I do not think that the word ''reckless'' is used in common speech with the sort of absolutism—extreme intention—with which the Minister has used it. Similarly, the word ''decimate'' is used to mean wiping out, when in practice it means one in ten. If people were decimated, we would be talking about a relatively modest massacre. What matters is the way people understand the word in common parlance. Surely the Minister could find a better word. ''Reckless'' means a bit over the edge. It does not necessarily mean going hell for leather. He said he would try to find another word, and I think it would be helpful if he could.