VOLUNTEERS in the North-East are to be used in trials for a controversial identity card.
They will be asked to step forward in Middlesbrough to have their irises, fingerprints and facial features scanned and stored on micro-chips.
A Government spokesman said one of the reasons for the tests was to assess how "comfortable'' people are with the tests.
The eye scans will be undertaken on a mobile trailer visiting Middlesbrough next week.
Home Office minister Des Browne said: "Identity crime is a growing threat to all countries. It costs the UK £1.3 billion a year, and facilitates organised crime, illegal immigration, benefit fraud, illegal working and terrorism.
"This is an ambitious, long-term project, and it is essential that we get it right."
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