By our Reporter
The UK government has unveiled plans to introduce compulsory digital ID cards for all adults as part of efforts to curb illegal immigration and prevent unauthorised employment.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is expected to present the proposal, centred on a new “Brit Card,” which would serve as proof of an individual’s right to live and work in the country, according to Sky News.
The scheme, which still requires public consultation and legislation, would make it mandatory for anyone starting a new job to present the Brit Card. Employers would then verify it against a central government database, allowing immigration officers to trace compliance and identify illegal workers.
Currently, employers rely on physical documents such as passports or biometric residence permits, which officials say are vulnerable to forgery. Supporters argue the new system would speed up verification and reduce fraud.
However, the proposal has drawn criticism across political lines. Former Conservative minister David Davis warned that digital IDs pose a major threat to privacy and civil liberties.
“While digital IDs and ID cards sound like modern and efficient solutions, the reality is they are profoundly dangerous to the freedoms of the British people,” he said, expressing doubt that the government could protect citizens’ data better than major tech firms that have faced repeated breaches.
Civil liberties groups have also voiced concerns over potential misuse and risks to personal data security.
