Overview
- Government sources say a bespoke digital ID will not be compulsory by 2029, but mandatory digital right-to-work checks remain the policy aim.
- Ministers indicate other digital documents are expected to satisfy checks, with the technical approach to be set after a consultation launching shortly.
- Primary legislation is required to implement the scheme, leaving the rollout timetable uncertain.
- Opposition parties call the move a U-turn, and Keir Starmer faces questioning at Prime Minister’s Questions today.
- Public backing fell from about 53% in June to roughly 31% in October, as critics warn of privacy, exclusion and cost risks, including an estimated £1.8bn over three years.