The British public will be given a chance to voice their opinions on the government's controversial digital ID scheme, which Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced could be introduced as early as 2029. The scheme aims to streamline access to vital government services, including proving identity to landlords, applying for free childcare, and conducting right-to-work checks.
The digital ID will be free and stored on users' phones, containing details such as age and residency status. The government has assured that police will not be able to demand to see the ID. Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones will launch a national consultation on Tuesday, March 10, warning that public services need to 'catch up' with the private sector, such as online banking.
A 'people's panel' will be established, comprising individuals from diverse backgrounds across the country, to address scepticism about the scheme. The panel will consider questions such as the minimum age for obtaining a digital ID—ministers have suggested children as young as 13 could be included—and what information should be included, such as proof of address.
Mr Jones stated: 'People too often dread their interactions with public services. Endless telephone calls, complicated printed forms and having to tell your story multiple times to different parts of Government. I want to change that and make public services work for you.' He added that other countries like Estonia have fully digitised public services years ago and that the UK needs to catch up.
The consultation invites the public to have their say on how digital ID can improve services like obtaining a driving licence or checking tax codes. The government emphasises that the system will be built to work for everyone, with the prototype designed as a 'government by app' system with digital ID at its foundation.
