squarebear.
Think about the governments data handling record. Laptops being left on trains, bank details on CDs being sent normal post, etc etc.
Would you like it if I knew where you lived, how old you were, the schools that your kids went to, how much money you have in your bank account, what you last purchased at tescos etc etc?
How about, which websites you surf, what books you got out of the library, where your parents live.
At the moment, it is conceivable that this data can be obtained. But as it is all in different hands, ALL of that data can't be lost or stolen.
Also consider how easy it would be to fight a political opponent when you know everything about them.
This government have been absolutely amazing at coming up with laws to eradicate civil liberties and then say "yes, but it is all about preventing terrorism". Sadly, people seem to believe it.