PM's digital identity scheme faces up to growing resistance

SIR KEIR Starmer’s political gamble on digital ID cards looked to be unravelling last night amid a growing backlash.

- By Martin Brown Political Editor

Some Labour MPs have already vowed a revolt against the plan, which is opposed by rival parties.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister had to clear up confusion over whether the scheme would be compulsory after Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy suggested they “will not be mandatory for people to use it...it will be entirely their choice”.

The smartphone-based cards are expected to be required for “right to work” checks by the end of this Parliament in 2029.

Sir Keir has said they will be free, but has not revealed how the scheme, costing taxpayers billions of pounds to set up and administer, will be paid for.

Critics have called his plan a “cynical ploy” to fool voters that something is being done about immigration.