As a new poll reveals mounting opposition to identity cards, the Tories and Liberal Democrats have claimed the government is losing the argument.

As ministers mount a behind-the-scenes offensive to shore up parliamentary support for new legislation, the latest opinion poll points to a significant drop in support for the plan.

The NO2ID survey, conducted by ICM, finds that support for ID cards has dropped from 80 per cent to 55 per cent.

The survey shows that 43 per cent of the population now think that ID cards are a bad or very bad idea.

Both the Conservative Party and the Liberal Democrats have spoken out against the government's controversial plans.

Rising costs

Reports that the cost of the compulsory biometric cards could rise above £100 a head have also led to growing unease amongst the public.

Shadow home secretary David Davis has warned of a mounting revolt both within parliament and the country.

"The ID cards scheme is fast turning into Labour's poll tax. It is no surprise that public opinion is turning against it," he said.

"Once the detail of the scheme is looked at, it's clear that it is not workable and is also likely to prove hugely expensive to the taxpayer.

"The latest cost estimate is between £100 and £300 per card, but the amount seems to go up every time you ask the government for a figure."

The government is said to be increasingly worried that it may fail to win parliamentary approval for the measure.

Rebellion

Lib Dems and Tories are expected to unite with Labour rebels in a move to defeat the ID card Bill.

Liberal Democrat home affairs spokesman Mark Oaten added: "The more people hear about the ID cards scheme, the less they like it.

"The government has two options, continue with this flawed project until 80 per cent of the public turn against it, or abandon it now.

"The money would be far better spent on more police and better border controls." 

"It is no wonder the government has delayed the first big vote on this Bill, as they now face the prospect of it falling at the first hurdle."