Re: Not wishing to trust Big Gov, but--
Exactly.
Pressure your MP for the introduction of a simple ID card, make it clear that this should NOT be linked to any backend systems other than a record of who you are.
Instead, the Great British Public allows itself to be whipped up into opposing frenzies by those who withhold key information - on all sides. I guess we just Like Shouting, to channel Python.
Why does the UK find it so hard to apply solutions that other countries simply do at the drop of a hat?
"Parents must not take kids out of school during term time to go on holiday when prices are lower"
"Let's have staggered school holidays"
"Impossible"
"How come pretty much every other country does it then?"
" "
Repeat ad nauseam for subjects of your choice.
BTW, the ECHR, like all legislation, is open to abuse. For instance, we have a Traveller problem - illegal occupation. They got an ECHR ruling that says "Their way of life must be protected" - even when that way of life involves long-term trespass, environmental crime, petty theft and vandalism, and routine intimidation. And no, we cannot apply for a ruling to protect OUR "way of life" because it is not recognised that "ordinary citizens" have any such thing to protect.
</rant> ;-)