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UK Pushes Ahead With Digital ID, Puts Cabinet Office in Charge

Oversight moves to the Cabinet Office with a consultation promised before year‑end.

Overview

  • Keir Starmer reframed the plan as a convenience measure, telling bank staff in Brighton it will "cut the faff" of paperwork.
  • A digital credential will be required for new employment checks but not for hospital access, with nationwide rollout targeted by 2029.
  • Policy, legislation and oversight shift to the Cabinet Office under Darren Jones, while GDS continues technical delivery of One Login and the Gov.uk Wallet.
  • A public consultation is due before year‑end as opposition grows, including an online petition above 2.9 million signatures and recent London demonstrations.
  • Security and cost concerns persist, with MP David Davis urging an NAO probe into One Login and estimates ranging from £2bn annual savings to multi‑billion upfront costs.