More than 1.6 million people have signed a petition opposing Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s plan to introduce mandatory digital ID cards for those working in the UK by 2029.
The petition argues that “no one should be forced to register with a state-controlled ID system,” describing the proposal as a step towards “mass surveillance and digital control.”
While petitions that exceed 100,000 signatures are usually considered for parliamentary debate, such campaigns rarely shift government policy.
Starmer has defended the scheme, calling digital IDs an enormous opportunity for the country.
Speaking on Friday, he said the plan would strengthen border security, reduce illegal migration, and make it harder to work in the UK without legal status.
“A secure border and controlled migration are reasonable demands, and this government is listening and delivering,” he said.
The proposed Brit card would also simplify access to public services, allowing citizens to verify their identity without relying on paper documents such as utility bills, Starmer added.
Civil liberties groups, however, have warned of major risks. Silkie Carlo, director of Big Brother Watch, said the move would make Britain less free and establish a domestic mass surveillance infrastructure vulnerable to cyberattacks.
She argued it could eventually expand beyond citizenship checks into areas like tax, healthcare, and even internet use.
Culture secretary Lisa Nandy sought to calm fears, insisting the government had “no intention of pursuing a dystopian mess.”
Political opposition has been strong. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch vowed to resist any attempt to impose ID cards on “law-abiding citizens,” while Reform UK leader Nigel Farage branded the proposal “an anti-British card,” claiming it would empower the state while doing little to stop illegal immigration.
Recall the Newdailyprime had earlier reported that Starmer backs digital ID cards for UK, claims it huge opportunity.
