The UK announces mandatory digital ID plans

The UK government has announced plans to introduce a mandatory national digital ID scheme, to be stored on mobile devices through the GOV.UK wallet app. The scheme aims to crack down on illegal migrant workers and secure the UK's borders. The digital ID will be required for adults to work in Britain by July 2029. The plans have sparked privacy concerns from civil rights groups, who argue that the scheme would fundamentally change the relationship between citizens and the state, creating a "papers, please" society. A petition against the introduction of digital ID cards has attracted over 830,000 signatures, citing concerns about mass surveillance and digital control. The government has stated that the digital ID scheme will offer benefits to citizens, such as the ability to access key services more swiftly. However, the plans are not yet finalized and will need to go through parliamentary approval. A public consultation will be launched later this year to gather feedback on the delivery of the digital ID service. The announcement comes amid growing public concerns about migrant boat crossings and pressure from the anti-immigration right-wing populist party Reform UK. The EU is also planning to introduce a similar Digital Identity Wallet next year for European citizens, residents, and businesses.