Victory for Workers: UK Government Abandons Mandatory Digital ID Law
In a significant policy reversal, the UK government has abandoned its plans to make digital ID registration mandatory for workers proving their right to work. Originally set to be enforced by 2029, the government will now offer this digital ID option alongside digital right to work checks using biometric passports. This represents a dramatic change from last year when Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer insisted that digital IDs would be a requirement for employment in the UK, declaring, “You will not be able to work in the United Kingdom if you do not have digital ID.”
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch welcomed the decision, labeling the original policy a ”terrible mistake”, while suggesting that the Labour party’s shift indicates another example of widespread government U-turns. This is part of a troubling trend, with the government also recently backing down on other issues like welfare reforms and inheritance tax adjustments.
The previously proposed digital ID scheme was aimed at cracking down on illegal immigrant workers; however, it is now framed more positively as a tool for enhancing public service access. Minister Darren Jones stated it would support the digital transformation of services, affirming upcoming consultations to gather public sentiment.
The policy has faced vocal opposition, with nearly three million people signing a petition against it. Additionally, Labour MPs have expressed frustration, fearing the backlash to defend a policy that could be reversed. One MP criticized the government’s approach, calling it an ”absolute car crash.” The Liberal Democrats branded the initiative “doomed to failure,” recommending funds earmarked for digital IDs be redirected to essential services like the NHS.
Prominent figures within various parties, including Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and Green Party leader Zack Polanski, celebrated the U-turn as a victory for civil liberties against what they described as an authoritarian approach. A government spokesperson maintained the commitment to mandatory checks focused on protecting against fraud and abuse, as the existing system relies heavily on paper-based verification with no thorough records. The upcoming Gov.uk One Login and the unlaunched Gov.uk Wallet are expected to facilitate secure digital ID utilization without compulsory registration, allowing employees to keep their identification information, such as names and immigration status, on their smartphones.