Overview
- In a Brighton media round, the prime minister said the credential will be compulsory only for right‑to‑work checks and insisted it will not track behaviour or be needed to access hospitals.
- Starmer said data would be limited to basic identity details and “highly encrypted,” rejecting viral claims about monitoring meat, alcohol or travel and promising no fines for not holding an ID outside work.
- Officials said non‑digital alternatives will be developed for people without smartphones, with outreach support planned, and the Information Commissioner pledged close oversight of the rollout.
- Public resistance has intensified, with an online petition approaching three million signatures and focus groups citing cybersecurity, cost and control concerns as cross‑party critics warn of risks and limited impact on illegal working.
- Ministers confirmed a consultation by the end of 2025 ahead of legislation, a 2029 rollout target, Cabinet Office oversight with DSIT delivery, unresolved costs, and disputed claims of a U‑turn over earlier promises of universal non‑digital options.