ID checks at clubs are now a part of the routine sequence of events for Londoners, they whip out their photo IDs as readily as their credit cards at a shopping spree. Questions are seldom asked, but since it's unclear who is in charge of the personal information and how it is used, a serious inquiry is needed.

At Shunt, a lounge at London Bridge Station, it is compulsory to show a photo ID on entry. Instead of the regular glance, the card is then scanned into the venue's database, where it is kept for a period of four weeks.

Caroline, a Shunt administrator, admitted that it was a measure taken in accordance with regulations set by the Metropolitan Police. “It was part of our licensing agreement and an activity that we take seriously for security reasons. The id information stays in the system for 28 days and can be called on by the MetPolice at any given time.”

Mimit, a member of the security staff, reiterated the same. “The database is available to the Police at all times. We have been asked to do so for the past couple of years, given our vital location – above the London Tube and below the National Railway – and the police have said that it would be mandatory for all the clubs in London to scan IDs as of the New Year.”

IDs are scanned at the entrance to the Shunt club, London Bridge.

A Met Officer refuted, “They are lying. ID scans are independent of the Met Police and I am not at liberty to comment on the latter, of future plans.” Another officer said, “The scans at clubs are independent of the Metropolitan Police.”

Melanie, a member of the Licensing department of the Westminster City Council, stated that the scanning of ID’s is a routine exercise that ensures that the visitors are above the age limit of 18 years.

Other popular clubs in the City - ZooBar at Leicester Square and Ministry of Sound in Southwark, also maintain their personal databases. ZooBar officials claim the ID remains in the system for 24 hours, whereas Ministry refused to comment on the duration.

Londoners may feel safe in the city, but how safe should they feel if their personal details are up on database, one which noone knows whos in control?