TONY BLAIR is to cut short an overseas trip next weekend so that he can be in the Commons for crucial votes that will determine the shape of his legislation introducing identity cards (Philip Webster writes).

The Prime Minister will omit two days from a visit to South Africa to make good his promise not to repeat the fiasco of missing a Commons division, and being directly responsible for the weakening of the Racial and Religious Hatred Bill. The Bill was watered down after the Government lost by one vote. Mr Blair will be in South Africa next weekend for a conference of leaders to discuss progressive governance. He had been planning to stay on for talks with President Mbeki and other events but will return on Monday.

The Times has established that Mr Blair’s desire to be back for the votes is the key reason for curtailing the trip. He is keen to restore discipline among Labour MPs, some of whom abstained last week without telling the whips.

It also appears, however, to be confirmation that the Government is facing a close vote on key areas. Opposition parties, likely to be backed by up to 30 Labour MPs, will try to ensure that the Bill is changed in line with Lords amendments.

Charles Clarke, the Home Secretary, will try to reverse amendments requiring him to announce the cost of an ID card scheme before the legislation goes through, and diluting the provision under which people would have to acquire an ID card on renewing their passports.

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