ANDY Burnham will scrap Sir Keir Starmer’s controversial digital ID scheme when he takes office on Monday.
The incoming Prime Minister wants cash earmarked for the programme to be spent on improving people’s lives.
Andy Burnham will scrap Sir Keir Starmer’s controversial digital ID scheme when he takes office on Monday Credit: Getty
Sir Keir attempted to rollout mandatory digital ID but was forced into a U-turn after facing fierce backlash from the public Credit: Reuters
His team described the move as a reset of priorities – improving everyday life instead of “expensive national government schemes”.
A spokesperson for the Prime Minister-in-waiting said: “All the time and resource that was going to be spent on a national ID scheme will go instead to where it’s most needed, such as helping with the cost of living.
Sign up for the Politics newsletter
Thank you!
“This government is determined to bring power back to communities, instead of hoarding it in Whitehall.”
Sir Keir attempted to rollout mandatory digital ID but was forced into a U-turn after facing fierce backlash from the public.
GOOD LORD!
Sadiq Khan made a LORD by Keir Starmer alongside 15 new Labour peers
LAST STAND
Cabinet including Reeves in tears as Starmer gets Labour ovation in last PMQs
The outgoing PM dropped the requirement for all workers to carry a specific card on their phone.
The scheme was first announced as compulsory for right-to-work checks in an attempt to deter illegal immigration.
Julia Lopez, Shadow Technology Secretary, said: “Labour have wasted millions of pounds on this project and now Andy Burnham is trying to pretend he’s riding to the rescue.
“After pressure from the Conservatives, mandatory ID was already apparently off the table. Andy Burnham now needs to explain whether that was untrue, or whether he is simply claiming credit for a decision that had already been taken.
“Andy Burnham should stop the political theatre and be clear about what exactly he is scrapping. Only the Conservatives have the team and the plan to restore common sense to public policy.”
Earlier this year a minister admitted they did not know the cost of introducing digital ID.
Darren Jones told Times Radio that a £1.8 billion estimate from the Office for Budget Responsibility was “not right” but said he could not name a figure.
Sources insisted Mr Burnham’s Government will continue to crack down on illegal working.
