Shattering Trust: Labour Councillor Resigns Over Controversial ID Card Scheme

In a bold move that has sent shockwaves through the local political landscape, David Nolan, the deputy leader of the Labour Party on the East Riding of Yorkshire Council, has announced his resignation in protest against the government’s plans to implement compulsory identity cards. This decision was propelled by Nolan’s mounting frustrations with several government policies, including changes to winter fuel payments, disability benefits, the handling of Gaza, and modifications to local planning rules.

Nolan, who represents Hessle, described the introduction of these ID cards as the “final straw”. Having previously left the Liberal Democrats in January 2024 over disagreements related to a devolution deal, he is now distancing himself from the Labour Party under the leadership of Sir Kier Starmer, whom he has labeled as “inept”.

In his resignation statement, Nolan expressed his concerns that the ID scheme represents an erosion of civil liberties and criticized it for lacking a mandate, noting it wasn’t part of Labour’s manifesto. He argues that the initiative appears to be a superficial move aimed at addressing immigration concerns, dismissing its effectiveness against boat migrants who may still operate within the black economy.

Nolan pointedly highlighted the significant financial burden this ID card scheme would impose on taxpayers, estimating costs associated with issuing 69 million identity cards—cards that he argues are unnecessary. At the same time, he criticized the local infrastructure, mentioning the 20-year backlog of repairs for roads and pavements in his area.

Now, with intentions to serve as an independent councillor, Nolan’s resignation raises critical questions about the implications of such policies on local governance and the political landscape at large.