Keir Starmer is planning to introduce digital ID cards known as “BritCards” for adults in the UK to combat illegal migration. The Prime Minister is expected to unveil this initiative in an upcoming speech, enabling the verification of individuals’ right to reside and work in the country.
Under the proposal, every adult will be required to possess a digital ID, which can be stored in a GOV.UK smartphone app, when seeking employment or rental accommodations in the UK. These IDs will be cross-referenced with a central database of individuals authorized to live and work in the UK, aiming to streamline the process of verifying immigration statuses and deterring illegal work practices, particularly in sectors like delivery services, and cracking down on unscrupulous landlords.
Former Prime Minister Tony Blair has advocated for ID cards for some time, although the government had previously dismissed the idea. A recent report by the think-tank Labour Together, submitted to No10’s policy unit, has reignited discussions on the matter.
According to Labour Together, the ID cards would be issued at no cost to all eligible individuals in the UK, with estimated setup expenses ranging from £140 million to £400 million. Beyond enhancing identity verification, the cards could offer additional conveniences such as eliminating the need to carry passports for collecting deliveries or serving as proof of age for purchasing alcohol.
The potential benefits of these ID cards will be highlighted by Mr. Starmer during his participation at the Global Progress Action Summit in London, where he will share the stage with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
In a recent statement, the Prime Minister emphasized the role of an ID card system in curbing illegal migration, noting the evolution of digital identification over the past two decades. He underscored the increasing prevalence of digital IDs in modern society and their evolving significance in various contexts.