Immunity cards risk creating a two-tier system

Liberty has responded to news that immunity cards are likely to be rolled out across the UK.

Grey Collier, Liberty advocacy director (pronouns they/them), said:

“We should all be able to live our lives free from unnecessary interference – but immunity cards risk creating a two-tier system in which some of us have access to freedoms and support while others are shut out.

“Suggestions people must carry cards on them raise questions about whether we could be asked to use them to prove immunity. Beyond that it’s unclear what they’re for.

“Once cards like these have been created it would be easy for their use to be extended so they can be used like an immunity passport. This could result in people who don’t have a card potentially being blocked from essential public services, work or housing – with the most marginalised among us hardest hit.

“This has wider implications too because any form of immunity passport could pave the way for a full ID system – an idea which has repeatedly been rejected as incompatible with building a rights-respecting society.

“We have always supported proportionate action to protect lives, but that must not come at the expense of our rights and freedoms.”