The UK Transport Secretary has confirmed that a digital ID for right-to-work checks will no longer be mandatory. Heidi Alexander from the Labour party stated that while they are committed to digital right-to-work checks, other digital documentation like a biometric passport chip will now be accepted.
Amid criticisms, the Cabinet minister dismissed claims of U-turns by Labour, emphasizing that change takes time but progress is being made. She clarified that digital right-to-work checks will still be required, mentioning the use of government-provided digital IDs on phones or biometric passport chips for verification.
Addressing concerns about Labour’s alleged U-turns, Ms. Alexander defended the party’s actions, particularly regarding welfare spending and child poverty initiatives. Chancellor Rachel Reeves also emphasized the government’s flexibility in accepting various forms of digital documentation for proving the right to work.
Public support for digital ID cards has fluctuated, with opposition voiced over civil liberties and data privacy issues. Despite initial plans to make digital IDs mandatory for work verification, the government faced challenges, leading to doubts about the feasibility of the policy.
A consultation on digital ID cards is forthcoming, with the aim of streamlining verification processes for employers and landlords. The proposed digital IDs would be accessible through a government app, facilitating quick and secure checks against a central database of individuals authorized to work and reside in the UK.