UK biometrics database lifted

Joyous news from our neighbours on the other side of the North Sea: today the UK's decree abolishing ID cards and a national biometrics database officially came into force. This happened with one stroke of the pen by Queen Elizabeth. The UK minister responsible gave the following explanation: "The national ID card was government at its very worst. It was intrusive, intimidating, ineffective and expensive." Good example follows good practice. When will the Netherlands follow?

Update: more on this news item in Webworld, NRC's 'Law and Governance' and NRC Next.