Andy Burnham, in a commitment to reshuffle priorities upon becoming Prime Minister, has pledged to eliminate the digital ID program. The new leader of the Labour Party has declared his intention to scrap the controversial scheme and reallocate resources to other areas.
Last September, Keir Starmer had announced that digital ID would be obligatory for proving the right to work in the UK by 2029. However, this move was met with massive opposition, including a petition with three million signatures demanding a reversal of the decision.
Despite previous adjustments by ministers, who had stated that the use of digital ID would not be compulsory, the plans will now be entirely abandoned.
A spokesperson for Mr. Burnham stated that the new government’s immediate focus will be on addressing pressing needs such as the cost of living, instead of pursuing a national ID scheme. The aim is to empower communities and shift away from centralizing power in Whitehall, with a commitment to fostering growth and hope across the country.
While employers will still be required to conduct right-to-work checks, they can perform these checks digitally. Labour sources view this decision as an early indication of the government’s revised priorities, emphasizing community needs.
Mr. Burnham is set to deliver his first address as Prime Minister on Monday, outlining plans to alleviate the cost of living and stimulate economic growth nationwide.
Previously, the cross-party Home Affairs Committee criticized the rushed implementation of digital ID plans without proper policy groundwork or public support.
Recent polling has shown that over half of UK residents are apprehensive about potential government surveillance associated with digital ID. Concerns have been raised about the monitoring of digital ID usage and its implications.
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