Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s plan for mandatory digital IDs has sparked fierce criticism, with privacy groups, opposition leaders, and over one million petitioners warning it risks mass surveillance without curbing illegal migration.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced plans to introduce mandatory digital ID cards, saying the so-called Brit-Cards will “make it tougher to work illegally in this country, making our borders more secure.” Speaking at the Global Progress Action Summit in London, he said citizens will require a digital ID to work in the UK by the end of the Parliament.
Sir Keir declared: “Let me spell it out, you will not be able to work in the United Kingdom if you do not have digital ID. It’s as simple as that.” He added that the system would also streamline access to services such as healthcare, passports, and driving licences.
But critics warn the scheme amounts to mass surveillance. Big Brother Watch described it as “dystopian,” while Liberty said digital IDs “won’t reduce irregular migration” but would “create a host of human rights issues.” Safe Passage International argued the plan ignores why people flee conflict.
Opposition leaders also attacked the proposal. Reform UK’s Nigel Farage called it a “cynical ploy,” while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch dismissed it as a “gimmick that will do nothing to stop the boats.”
Public backlash was swift. A petition opposing the scheme surpassed one million signatures within hours, warning digital IDs would be “a step towards mass surveillance and digital control.”
Labour Together estimates the system will cost £400 million to build and £10 million annually to run. Despite assurances from Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy that using the ID would remain optional, civil liberties groups remain unconvinced.