Labour's Digital ID Scheme Returns Despite Past Controversy
Remarkably, the Labour government has confirmed it is reviving its digital ID plans, a policy that was quietly dropped earlier this year. Originally known as the 'Brit card' and now rebranded as 'government by app,' the scheme is set to undergo an elaborate consultation process, with a clearer plan expected later this year. This move raises questions about its chances of success, given the historical unpopularity of compulsory identification in Britain.
Historical Context and Previous Attempts
Compulsory ID has long been unpopular in the UK, even during the Second World War, when it was imposed with fascistic overtones of 'papers, please.' The wartime system was abolished in 1952 and never replaced, unlike in many other countries where carrying photo ID or smartphone equivalents is normal. Modern efforts to introduce a digital ID system date back to the Blair government, which implemented a voluntary plastic card scheme. This was swiftly abolished in 2011 by the Coalition government to save money.
Things went quiet until Keir Starmer made it a flagship policy, announcing his scheme last September. It was intended as a centrepiece of a modernising Labour administration but quickly faced public resistance. By October, it was downgraded to voluntary status, and by January, it was quietly dropped—or so it seemed.
Why Is Labour Reviving the Plan?
It could be that Starmer still wants it for his legacy, but a more convincing explanation is that ministers believe it is a good idea and an inevitable part of digitising government services. This aligns with private sector innovation, and the digital ID scheme will integrate with existing systems like gov.uk One Login and the planned gov.uk Wallet. The digital ID would include details such as name, date of birth, nationality, residence status, and a photo.
Will Digital ID Be Mandatory?
Currently, it does not appear so, but the consultation is not complete. Given public scepticism, it is unlikely to be compulsory initially, though it might evolve that way over time. An issue from last September was resentment about being required to carry a document, seen as alien to British tradition. This requirement was only mandatory for those starting new jobs, aimed at deterring irregular migrants from unlawful employment. However, ID checks by employers were already compulsory, and those in informal economies often ignored paperwork anyway.
The initial Starmer scheme was poorly thought through and marketed, leading to its failure. The new consultation aims to address these shortcomings and build public trust.
Potential Risks and Benefits
What could go wrong? Plenty. The scheme could follow the British tradition of public works by being massively overspent or failing to function properly, whether private sector expertise is involved or not. Billions could be wasted, especially since most people already have passports or digital driving licences, making a specific ID system seem unnecessary. Worse, a major data breach could occur, potentially making identity theft and fraud easier for hackers.
What could go right? Citizens might enjoy a one-stop service for tasks like booking hospital appointments, claiming universal credit, or getting a new passport. This could save time and money, streamlining government interactions.
Consultation Details and Public Response
The consultation will include a random 'citizen's panel' of 100 people to scrutinise the plan, pre-empt objections, and dispel conspiracy theories. There is also a conventional questionnaire for the general public, closing on 5 May. Despite these efforts, the scheme is unlikely to be a vote-winner, even if it works, due to ongoing public concerns about privacy and practicality.
