Forcing all Britons to bear ID tags is no fix for illegal migration

THE PROSPECT of mandatory digital ID in the UK has once again reared its ugly head. This time, it is being suggested as a way of tackling illegal migration to these shores.

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All this would do is show that governments have failed in their responsibility to properly protect our borders. It’s a cop-out suggestion from politicians who are completely out of touch with public feeling.

More than 40 Labour MPs have written to the Government to call for the introduction of digital ID so the country can “get a grip” on illegal migration. Their open letter comes at a time when record numbers are crossing the Channel due to calmer sea conditions.

Nearly 7,000 migrants have made the journey in boats so far in 2025, making a mockery of Sir Keir Starmer’s general election pledge to “stop the gangs” by going after the criminals charging thousands of pounds to people who wish to gain access to Britain.

These Labour MPs are not alone in their plight. Former Labour prime minister Sir Tony Blair has repeatedly called for the introduction of digital ID cards to control immigration and to get a clear picture of who is currently in our country.

Blair’s position on this is not new. When he was in office, he introduced legislation to Parliament for compulsory ID cards. Thankfully, this was scrapped by the Conservative-Lib Dem coalition in 2010.