The government's proposals for national identity cards were approved by the Commons last night.

Although more than a quarter of MPs didn't vote, and both Labour and Conservative rebels attempted to derail the legislation, Charles Clarke survived his first major test as home secretary.

The bill was given a second reading by 385 votes to 93, a government majority of 292.

A wrecking amendment proposed by Tory and Labour rebels seeking to deny the bill a second reading was rejected by 306 to 93, a government majority of 213.

Nineteen Labour MPs voted against the bill while ten Tories ignored Michael Howard by refusing to endorse the plans.

A further 72 Conservative MPs, nearly half the parliamentary party, did not attend.

All 55 Liberal Democrats voted against the plans, claiming the plans are costly, illiberal and ineffectual.

David Blunkett, who resigned last week, voted with the government but did not speak.