The United Kingdom government has reversed its plan for a mandatory digital identity system for workers, opting instead for a voluntary digital ID focused on accessing public services. While the mandatory element has been removed, the government maintains its commitment to implementing mandatory digital right-to-work checks, which are projected to transition entirely online by 2029. The initial justification for the mandatory digital ID, which centered on addressing illegal migration and illegal working, has been revised, with the current focus on consumer benefits and broader public service access.
Policy Shift and Details
The original proposal for a mandatory digital ID for workers, which aimed to verify their right to work, has been withdrawn. Under the revised approach, individuals will still be required to digitally verify their right to work, but through alternative methods, with a new government-issued digital ID becoming an optional, rather than essential, tool. Biometric passports, for example, are expected to remain a method for these checks.
The government indicated that the revised scheme will broaden its utility beyond immigration, emphasizing its potential to simplify access to various public services for those who choose to use it voluntarily. Internal government discussions suggested an aim to "remove the whole culture war thing entirely and focus on the pragmatic element plenty of people will like and will choose to use," according to one government figure.
Reasons for the Reversal
The mandatory aspect of the digital ID proposal had drawn significant criticism. Concerns were raised regarding an overly intrusive state, with some critics drawing parallels to previous unsuccessful ID card initiatives approximately two decades ago. Some Labour Members of Parliament also reportedly expressed reservations about the mandatory nature of the initial plan.
Public sentiment also showed a decline in support for digital ID following the initial announcement, with polling data indicating a drop from over half the population in June to under one-third shortly after a government speech on the matter. A parliamentary petition opposing digital IDs garnered nearly three million signatures. Former home secretary Lord David Blunkett stated that the government had not adequately explained the policy's rationale or implementation, leading to the reversal.
Government Stance and Statements
Despite the policy adjustment regarding the mandatory ID, government ministers affirmed their commitment to digital right-to-work checks. Business Secretary Peter Kyle stated a determination to "make it more difficult for individuals to work illegally in this country, and consequently, there will be digital and mandatory checks." Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander reiterated that digitizing the system would assist in addressing illegal employment, noting that the existing paper-based system lacks proper record-keeping, which hinders targeted enforcement actions. She clarified that a digital ID could serve as one method for individuals to verify their work eligibility.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting commented on the importance of policies being correctly implemented from their inception.
Reactions and Context
The decision marks another policy adjustment by Sir Keir Starmer's government. Previous instances of policy adjustments or reversals cited include business rates on pubs in England, inheritance tax for farmers, income tax, benefits cuts, and winter fuel payments. Some Labour MPs reportedly expressed frustration regarding the frequency of policy reversals.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch welcomed the government's decision during Prime Minister's Questions, characterizing the initial digital ID plan as ineffective and suggesting it demonstrated a lack of consistent direction from Sir Keir Starmer. The prime minister responded by referencing policy reversals and changes in ministerial roles during the previous government, stating that the Conservatives had negatively impacted the economy while in power.