Overview

• Reports say the prime minister will give in‑principle support as soon as Friday to a government‑issued digital ID required for every adult.
• The credential would verify a person’s right to live and work in the UK, with new hires asked to present it for automated checks against a central database.
• Officials say employment checks could be cross‑referenced with HMRC payroll data to guide immigration enforcement efforts.
• The proposal still requires a public consultation and primary legislation, and key design, safeguards and rollout details have not been finalised.
• Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has voiced support, while groups including Liberty and Big Brother Watch oppose a mandatory scheme, with petitions topping 100,000 signatures; supporters point to pressure to curb Channel crossings and warnings from President Macron.