Not compulsary?

Have i missed something or are ID cards now compulsary? I can't imagine them swapping it for paper passports, lots of countries wouldn't be able to handle a bespoke ID card, nor for driving licence, so as far as I remember we won't be "forced" to have one (just yet).

if they do become compulsary, I'll go to the local police station and hand myself in for arrest. I'll be a pirate!