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1h ago

UK Government Reaffirms Digital ID Rollout This Parliament as Palantir Walks Away

Ministers promise a consultation and possible legislation after a 2.7 million‑signature petition.

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Louis Mosley, head of Palantir in the UK, said there was no “clear resounding public support” for digital ID
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Overview

  • The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology confirmed a national digital ID will be introduced within this Parliament, with employers required to use it for right‑to‑work checks by the end of the term.
  • Officials said possession will not be a criminal requirement and police cannot demand to see a digital ID during stop‑and‑search.
  • The system will be free for residents aged 16 and over, built on GOV.UK One Login and the GOV.UK Wallet, with privacy and security commitments and a consultation set for the coming weeks.
  • Opposition has surged, with a petition topping 2.7 million signatures and More in Common polling showing net support shifting from +35% in June to −14% after the announcement.
  • Palantir’s UK chief ruled out bidding, citing a lack of democratic mandate, as civil liberties groups warn of surveillance, cybersecurity and exclusion risks.