Tag: Immigration Debate

The UK government has unveiled plans to introduce a national digital ID system, a move it says will help address undocumented immigration and streamline access to public services. The plan, announced Friday, comes amid rising political pressure over immigration and growing support for tougher border measures. Under the proposed scheme, British citizens and residents will receive a digital identity that can be stored on smartphones. While individuals won’t be required to carry it at all times, it will be mandatory for anyone seeking employment to use the system to prove their right to work. The digital ID will include basic personal information such as name, date of birth, photo, nationality, and residency status. Officials say it will also simplify processes like applying for driving licences, welfare, childcare, and accessing tax records. “Digital ID is an enormous opportunity for the UK,” Prime Minister Keir Starmer said. “It will make it tougher to work illegally in this country, making our borders more secure.” The UK has historically resisted identity card schemes, with the last system abolished after World War II. A similar plan proposed in the 2000s by then-Prime Minister Tony Blair was scrapped following criticism over civil liberties. The new proposal, however, has already drawn opposition from across the political spectrum. The Liberal Democrats warned against any system that could require citizens to hand over personal data for everyday activities. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said her party would oppose any form of mandatory ID that affects law-abiding citizens, warning it could exclude those without digital access. Nigel Farage, leader of the far-right Reform UK party, called the plan a political tactic designed to give the appearance of action on immigration. He argued it would fail to stop illegal immigration and instead be used to “control and penalise” ordinary citizens. Despite the criticism, polling indicates growing public support for tighter immigration controls and ID verification systems. A petition opposing the plan had gathered more than 575,000 signatures by Friday morning, but Labour appears confident the broader public mood favours the move. The announcement comes just days before the Labour Party’s annual conference, and analysts say the timing may be aimed at reaffirming the government’s commitment to addressing public concerns over immigration.