Keir Starmer is expected to scale back plans for digital ID after strong public opposition, with reports suggesting the scheme will be diluted when introduced in 2029 - and we want to know what you think in our poll in the comments
David Prince and Dave Burke
13:22, 15 Jan 2026
Keir Starmer is reportedly set to scale back plans for digital ID following strong public opposition, with indications that the scheme will be watered down when launched in 2029. The Times suggests that alternative digital documents such as electronic passports and visas will be accepted as proof of eligibility to work.
Public backlash forces rethink
The decision comes in the wake of significant public backlash, including a petition signed by nearly three million people urging the Government to abandon the plans entirely. Inside Whitehall, there's a growing sentiment that the proposal to make the scheme compulsory became the main source of opposition, overshadowing any potential benefits and fuelling fears about exclusion, privacy, and access.
Digital ID not scrapped
Despite the backlash, ministers maintain that the policy is not being scrapped. Government-issued digital ID cards, a key proposal from Starmer, are now expected to be optional initially rather than mandatory.
Digital ID not scrapped
A government source told The Times that reducing mandatory use is intended to alleviate public concerns, particularly worries that individuals, especially older or rural residents, could be barred from working simply because they have not installed the digital ID. This approach is seen as a way to balance the Government's objectives with practicality and inclusivity as the consultation process continues.
Political criticism
Liberal Democrat Cabinet Office spokesperson Lisa Smart ridiculed the U-turn, suggesting Number 10 must be "bulk ordering motion sickness tablets" to manage the constant policy reversals. She branded the proposal as flawed from its inception and urged that the allocated funds be channelled towards the NHS and frontline policing instead.
Government response
Downing Street maintained its commitment to mandatory digital right to work checks and stressed that comprehensive details of the scheme would be revealed following a public consultation due to launch in the coming weeks. A government spokesperson stated that digital ID aims to streamline access to public services, enhance inter-departmental coordination, and ensure inclusivity for those who may find digital technology challenging.
Immigration justification
Starmer has previously contended that the scheme would serve as a crucial instrument in combating illegal employment, arguing it has been far too straightforward for individuals to enter the country, secure work in the informal economy, and evade detection. He has maintained that connecting the right to work to a digital ID would eliminate those vulnerabilities, consistently asserting that individuals lacking a digital ID would be unable to work in the UK.
Growing doubts
Scepticism continues to grow around the scheme's worth. MPs were informed in November that the policy had been so poorly managed it was now deemed "irrecoverable."
Silki Carlo, director of advocacy group Big Brother Watch, expressed her doubts to the Home Affairs Select Committee, questioning whether mandatory digital ID is genuinely aimed at tackling illegal working.
She cautioned that the way the rollout has been conducted could erode trust in the policy and potentially harm its future prospects.
Would you support the introduction of digital ID cards?
Share your view in the comments. Tell us yes or no, then add a short line explaining why. For example, you might say digital ID would make everyday checks easier, or that you are concerned about privacy, access, or costs.
You can also leave a single sentence on how digital ID could affect your work, access to services, travel, or daily life.
We may feature the clearest and most useful responses in a follow up story.
A note on comments
We are looking for real experiences and thoughtful views. Please keep discussion civil and respectful. Abusive or hateful comments may be removed. If you see a helpful or well argued point from another reader, feel free to support it or add to it.
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