London: ( The COW News Digital)- UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced that the government will launch a free digital ID for both British nationals and foreign residents. The initiative, unveiled on Friday is aimed at reducing illegal migration while also simplifying access to key public services.
According to the government, the new system will make it easier for people to apply for services such as driving licenses, childcare, welfare benefits and even tax records. The digital ID will be stored directly on mobile phones, removing the need to carry physical documents.
While individuals will not be required to show their ID in everyday life, the new system will be mandatory for proving the right to work in the UK. Officials believe this step will prevent people without legal status from getting jobs, cutting off one of the major incentives for illegal migration.
“This will stop those with no right to be here from being able to find work, curbing their prospect of earning money, one of the key ‘pull factors’ for people who come to the UK illegally,” a government statement said.
Starmer described digital ID as a step toward modernization. “Digital ID is an enormous opportunity for the UK… it will also offer ordinary citizens countless benefits,” he said.
The UK has historically resisted identity card schemes but recent surveys show growing public support for introducing digital ID.
