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UK Government Considers ‘BritCard’ Digital ID to Tackle Illegal Migration

Downing Street has asked officials to review a smartphone-based credential designed to verify right to work by linking to government records to cut benefit fraud.

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Efforts by Tony Blair’s Labour government to introduce a mandatory ID card in 2006 were met with protests
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Overview

  • Downing Street policy unit is examining a proposal by Labour Together to introduce a universal digital ID card called BritCard that would live on individuals’ smartphones and link to official records.
  • The plan is pitched as a tool to verify entitlements for work and housing, deter illegal migration and benefit fraud, and could integrate services like passports, driving licences and NHS access.
  • Several cabinet ministers, including Cabinet Office Minister Pat McFadden and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle, have voiced support, while Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has expressed a nuanced position on mandating the ID.
  • Labour Together estimates the initial rollout would cost between £140 million and £400 million, with the app free to use and a physical card option for those without smartphones.
  • Polls commissioned by Labour Together find roughly 80% of Britons back digital right-to-work credentials, although cybersecurity experts warn the system could become a target for hackers.