The UK government will consult on its new digital ID plan, this consultation will include teenagers as young as thirteen. The proposed digital ID plan is a nationwide scheme, officials aim to introduce the system by 2029. It will be available for all citizens, the ID will also cover legal residents. It will only be mandatory for workers. This significant proposal has already sparked a major backlash. A petition against it gained millions of signatures.
Furthermore, a government spokesperson confirmed the consultation details, they explained the need to include younger teenagers. Many children start part-time work at fourteen. Some local councils permit work from thirteen, employers will legally need to check digital IDs. This rule applies for right to work checks. Therefore, the government must consider this age group.
Moreover, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper defended the proposal, Also she stated many thirteen-year-olds already have digital IDs. Cooper argued for a standardized national process, she believes this approach is the right way forward. The government previously set out similar plans. Those plans were for people coming to work from abroad.
However, the digital ID plan faces strong opposition. Civil liberties group Big Brother Watch called it Orwellian. Director Silkie Carlo voiced serious concerns. She described enrolling children as a sinister step. Carlo questioned the government’s future intentions for the ID. She highlighted parent’s caution over children using smartphones.
Additionally, the Liberal Democrats criticized the consultation. Their science spokesperson called the move sinister. Victoria Collins warned of unnecessary state overreach. She said the consultation shows clear mission creep. This aligns with their earlier warnings about the scheme.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised a foreign system. He complimented India’s extensive digital ID network. He suggested using similar technology in the UK. Downing Street later clarified his comments. The UK system will not copy India’s biometric model. It will also be a public sector project.
Many other countries already use digital IDs. Estonia and Denmark have successful systems. Spain, Canada, and Japan also use them. The European Union is introducing its own digital wallet. All member states must roll it out soon. Several non-EU nations are also piloting schemes.
Ultimately, the government is pushing forward with its digital ID plan. It will consult on including young teenagers. Officials insist the move is logical for employment. Critics however see a threat to privacy and liberty. The debate will certainly intensify throughout the consultation period.
For more political news updates, visit London Pulse News.
