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By Steve Ranger, 11 May 2005 17:55

NEWS The line-up of ministers in charge of the UK's technology policy and projects is becoming clearer.

Alun Michael has been named as the new minister responsible for ecommerce but a number of other ministers - mostly in junior positions - are responsible for policies that depend on massive IT projects.

In the Home Office Andy Burnham, as parliamentary under secretary, will take on responsibility for ID cards, passports and e-borders, supporting immigration minister Tony McNulty. ID cards - if implemented - could see one of the largest IT projects yet, while work is already underway to add biometrics to passports.

Burnham will also take responsibility for the Criminal Records Bureau, the scene of technical problems in the past.

Also at the Home Office, parliamentary under secretary Paul Goggins will be responsibility for serious and organised crime and internet crime, while Fiona Mactaggart has also been appointed a parliamentary under secretary with responsibility for the criminal justice system and IT.

Home Secretary Charles Clarke said in a statement: "I have a strong ministerial team in place ready to embark on the challenges of combating crime and anti-social behaviour, strengthening national security, ensuring an effective criminal justice system, introducing ID cards, tackling immigration abuse and cutting re-offending."

At the Department of Health, Lord Warner is likely to oversee the massive IT projects underway.

At the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, James Purnell has been appointed minister for media and tourism, which covers broadcasting, though Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell retains responsibility for the digital switchover.