British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced plans to introduce a Digital Identity Card system, aimed at strengthening immigration controls and improving access to public services across the United Kingdom.
The Prime Minister said the digital ID cards will initially be implemented on a voluntary basis, allowing individuals to verify their identity, employment eligibility, and entitlement to public benefits more easily.
According to the Home Office, the new digital identity framework will help monitor illegal migrants, prevent identity fraud, and ensure transparency in welfare and employment systems. The ID could be used for services such as childcare, welfare claims, and healthcare applications.
Starmer acknowledged that the proposal faces limited public support, but emphasized that the government must move forward “with a principled and pragmatic approach” to secure the country’s future.
During his recent visit to India, Starmer met with Nandan Nilekani, the co-founder of IT giant Infosys, who designed India’s Aadhaar biometric ID system, now used by over one billion citizens.
The British leader described the Indian model as an example of “digital inclusion and accountability,” hinting that the UK’s own system will draw lessons from it while adapting to British privacy standards.
However, civil rights groups have raised concerns that the initiative could lead to mass surveillance and data misuse, warning that balancing security and privacy will be the biggest challenge for the government.
