Andy Burnham has promised to eliminate the digital ID program as part of a reevaluation of priorities once he assumes the role of Prime Minister. The new leader of the Labour party has committed to scrapping the contentious scheme and reallocating funds to other areas.
Last September, Keir Starmer announced that digital ID would become mandatory for proving the right to work in the UK by 2029, which sparked significant opposition, including a petition with three million signatures calling for a reversal of the decision.
Despite previous adjustments by ministers stating that the use of digital ID would not be obligatory, the plans will now be completely abandoned. A spokesperson for Mr. Burnham stated that the government’s focus will shift towards addressing pressing needs such as alleviating the cost of living rather than pursuing a national ID scheme.
Employers will still be required to conduct right-to-work checks, which can be done digitally. Labour sources view this decision as an early indication of new government priorities, emphasizing community needs.
Mr. Burnham is scheduled to deliver his inaugural address as Prime Minister on Monday, outlining plans to ease the cost of living and promote economic growth across the UK. The Home Affairs Committee previously criticized the Government for rushing digital ID plans without proper policy groundwork or public support.
A recent poll revealed that over half of UK residents expressed concerns about potential government surveillance associated with having a digital ID. Additionally, polling by Deltapoll indicated that 61% of individuals worry about potential monitoring of digital ID usage locations and times.