AI Generated Image
Andy Burnham to scrap digital ID to focus on 'helping with cost of living'
BBC • • general
Key Points:
- Andy Burnham will scrap plans for a government-issued mandatory digital ID for all British adults when he becomes prime minister, shifting focus to more immediate priorities like the cost of living.
- The previous government under Sir Keir Starmer had already softened the digital ID proposal from mandatory to voluntary after public opposition and concerns over privacy and government overreach.
- The digital ID scheme was estimated to cost £1.8 billion over three years, drawing criticism for potential waste of taxpayer money and fears about data privacy.
- Burnham's decision follows criticism from various political figures, with Conservatives questioning his timing and Liberal Democrats welcoming the scrapping of the compulsory scheme.
- Alongside the digital ID announcement, Burnham plans to introduce new oil and gas drilling licenses in the North Sea, while reportedly upholding Labour's 2024 manifesto commitment to not issue new licenses but honor existing ones.
