Commenting on news that unencrypted discs containing the personal details of over 7,500 people have been lost by the DVLA, Liberal Democrat Shadow Northern Ireland Secretary, Alistair Carmichael MP said:

"The political damage caused by yet another data breach will be significant.

"It is now clear that the Government's mishandling of personal data is not just a one off incident. Departments are proving remarkably cavalier in the way they handle important information.

"The proposed ID card scheme hinges on the Government's ability to keep personal data safe. It's hard to imagine that even the most enthusiastic promoters of ID cards will see their introduction as a good idea now."