Breaking News: Keir Starmer to Unveil Digital ID Plan
Sir Keir Starmer is set to announce plans for a compulsory UK-wide digital ID scheme in a speech on Friday, according to senior government sources. The prime minister believes the scheme will help crack down on illegal working and modernise the state.
The digital ID plan would see individuals' right to live and work in the UK checked against a central database, replacing current physical document checks. This move is expected to have an immediate impact on tackling immigration and border control issues.
Background context suggests that this idea has been discussed before, but was blocked by the Conservative-Liberal Democrat coalition during the previous Labour government's attempt to introduce ID cards in 2009. However, Starmer believes the debate has "moved on" with the increasing use of digital technology.
The practicalities of the scheme will be subject to a consultation, which will also explore how to make it work for those without a smartphone or passport. This is a developing story and further details are expected in the coming days.
This is a developing story and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.
*This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Based on reporting from Bbc.*
