Andy Burnham will scrap hated digital ID scheme to spend cash elsewhere

Andy Burnham will scrap hated digital ID scheme to spend cash elsewhere The new Labour leader, Andy Burnham, vowed to abandon plans to introduce digital ID, and instead redirect funds elsewhere to be better reflect the priorities of the public Andy Burnham has vowed to scrap the digital ID scheme in a “reset of priorities” once Prime Minister. The new Labour leader vowed to abandon the controversial scheme, and instead redirect funds elsewhere. In September last year Keir Starmer announced digital ID would be mandatory for proving the right to work in the UK by 2029. The move was met with huge opposition, including a petition demanding ministers back down, which attracted three million signatures. While ministers had already watered down plans saying there would be no requirement to use digital ID, the plans will now be dropped completely. A spokesperson for Mr Burnham, said: “One of the first things this government will do is put its focus where people need it right now: creating breathing space and delivering change they can feel in their everyday lives. “That means 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. “This government is determined to bring power back to communities, instead of hoarding it in Whitehall. We will work every day to lift this country back up to where it belongs - with growth in every postcode, and hope in every heart.” Right to work checks will remain mandatory for employers, and employers can already carry them out digitally. Labour sources say the decision is an early demonstration of new priorities in Downing Street, and will instead allow communities to focus on what they need. Mr Burnham will deliver his first speech as Prime Minister on Monday, in which he is expected to set out plans to provide “breathing space” on the cost of living and bring economic growth to every part of the UK. Previously the cross-party Home Affairs Committee accused the Government of rushing plans for digital ID with plans without doing the policy work needed, or getting voters onboard. Earlier this month polling found more than half of people in the UK were worried about the Government tracking them if they have a digital ID. Polling carried out by Deltapoll, found that 61% are concerned that where and when a digital ID is used could be monitored. [Image text:] KeirCard KeirCard X KeirCard Keir Rodney Starmer Righe to work Acproved Social meda access Denied Medical history Leaked ANO2DIGITALID.CO.UK Keir Rodney Starmer Right to wok Approved Social media access Denie Medical history Leakec NO2DIGITALID.CO.UK scaning facsa iosetrics Keir Rodney Starmer Right to work Approved Social media access Denied Medical history Leaked NO2DIGITALID.CO.UK BOBROTHER VATCH