Starmer Backs Digital ID Cards, Citing Potential to Combat Illegal Migration adn Prevent Another Windrush
LONDON – Labor leader Keir Starmer has voiced support for the introduction of digital ID cards in the UK, framing the proposal as an “enormous chance” to address illegal migration, tackle exploitative work practices, and prevent a repeat of the windrush scandal.The potential scheme, reportedly under consideration by Downing Street, would leverage existing government infrastructure and a planned gov.uk Wallet app – perhaps rebranded as the “Brit Card” app – to store secure digital identities on citizens’ smartphones.
The Guardian revealed in June that the government was exploring digital ID cards as a means to crack down on illegal migration and rogue landlords. The idea originated from a Labour Together paper presented to the No 10 policy unit,proposing a ”Brit Card” to help reduce visa overstayers – estimated to include half of those whose asylum claims have been rejected over the last 14 years.
Under the proposed system, employers, immigration authorities, banks, and landlords would be able to verify identities using free software. The technology would be built upon the government’s existing “One Login” infrastructure,currently providing access to approximately 50 government services.
The plans have drawn criticism from across the political spectrum. reform UK dismissed the proposals as a ”cynical ploy,” while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch labelled them a “gimmick that will do nothing to stop the boats.” Labour Together argued the digital ID system could also help avoid another windrush scandal,referencing the difficulties faced by Caribbean immigrants who where wrongly detained or deported due to a lack of documentation.
