Prime Minister Keir Starmer has hailed digital ID cards as an enormous opportunity for the UK, arguing they will strengthen border security and streamline access to public services.
Speaking at a progressive politics conference on Friday, Starmer said the proposals dubbed the Brit Card are essential to tackling illegal migration, a key concern among voters. The plan would require new legislation and has already drawn fierce opposition from civil liberties groups.
Starmer said, “a secure border and controlled migration are reasonable demands. Digital ID will make it harder to work illegally in this country, while giving citizens practical benefits, like proving identity quickly to access services, instead of searching for old utility bills.”
The government insists the scheme will not become intrusive.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said there was “no intention of pursuing a dystopian mess.”
But critics have condemned the proposals. Silkie Carlo, director of Big Brother Watch, said digital IDs risk creating a “checkpoint society” and pose a threat to personal freedom.
He added that “they would not stop small boats but would make Britain less free and the cost to public money and civil liberties would be enormous.”
Opposition parties also attacked the plan. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called it a cynical ploy, while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch dismissed it as a gimmick.
The Guardian revealed in June that No 10 was exploring the Brit Card scheme to crack down on illegal migration, rogue landlords, and exploitative employers.
The digital ID would be free, stored on a person’s smartphone via the gov.uk Wallet app, and verified by employers, banks, landlords, or immigration officials.
