Perhaps the whole thing is actually a conspiracy. The issues do need exposure. For the last twenty five years there has been continual creeping erosion of civil liberties, starting with right to strike and picket, on through travel restrictions on demonstrators, camera surveillance, retention of communications records etc. etc., and now the proposals on ID cards and administrative detention. The licensing laws fiasco was a minor reflection of the whole driving assumtions of governments. Plus of course the freelance efforts- like supermarket loyalty cards and computer cookies. Whatever you think about the balance between security and liberty, there has not been a debate and a debate is required.

How better to prevent it than to replace it with a silly tabloid shouting match?

It's notable that when it comes to disclosure, MPs are most defensive of their own liberties.