The UK government has announced a significant alteration to its digital ID policy, removing the mandatory requirement for workers to possess a digital ID card. This decision marks a notable shift in one of Prime Minister Keir Starmer's key policy initiatives, initially aimed at curbing illegal working practices.

Policy Shift and Political Reactions

The original plan, which mandated digital IDs for employment verification, faced substantial criticism from various quarters, including within the Labour Party. Critics likened it to a "show us your papers" society, reminiscent of past debates over ID cards. In response, the government has now opted to allow alternative forms of digital identification, such as e-visas or e-passports, while maintaining the requirement for digital checks.

Despite accusations from the Conservative Party of a lack of direction, Starmer has refuted claims of a policy U-turn. In a recent interview, he emphasized that the core objective remains intact: "You will be checked. Those checks will be digital. And they will be mandatory." Starmer reiterated that the primary goal is to prevent illegal working in the UK.

Broader Context of Policy Changes

This adjustment is part of a broader pattern of recent policy changes by the government, including revisions to inheritance tax for farms and business rates for pubs. The opposition has seized upon these changes, with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticizing the government for its perceived inconsistency.

Government's Justification and Future Steps

The government argues that the revised approach will still effectively link biometric data to individuals' identities, enabling instant verification of work eligibility. Business Secretary Peter Kyle highlighted the efficiency of this system, stating it allows for immediate checks on a person's right to work.