Despite claims of minimal data collection, the UK government’s proposed digital identity system faces public and political resistance over privacy fears, as officials emphasise security and accessibility.
The UK Government’s proposed digital ID system is expected to hold significantly less personal data than online cookies, according to Lord Richard Hermer, the country’s Attorney General. Speaking at a fringe event during Labour’s annual conference in Liverpool, Lord Hermer reflected on his past opposition to similar ID systems introduced during Tony Blair’s tenure but emphasised that evolving technology and changing privacy norms have fundamentally shifted the debate since the early 2000s. He suggested that the digital ID would store limited information, contrasting starkly with the extensive data collected through online tracking technologies.
The initiative, championed by the Prime Minister and unveiled recently at a conference of centre-left leaders, aims to create a secure and mandatory identity verification system for those working in the UK by 2029. According to Sir Keir Starmer, one of the policy’s core motivations is to deter illegal migrant workers by making it harder to work without proper authorization. The scheme would allow the government to automatically collect data on employment status to better enforce immigration rules, addressing concerns about illegal working practices highlighted by recent enforcement raids.
However, the proposals have met with significant public resistance, with over two million people signing a petition opposing the plan on grounds of privacy infringement and fears of increased state surveillance. Critics from opposition parties have described the scheme as politically motivated and unlikely to be effective in curbing illegal immigration. Labour backbencher Bell Ribeiro-Addy noted that much of the backlash stems from misunderstandings about the policy’s intent and questioned whether it would truly impact the shadow economy. Sir Keir, however, maintains confidence in the system, asserting that mandatory digital ID will be crucial for lawful employment verification.
The government envisions the digital ID working similarly to existing smartphone-based applications, such as contactless payment or the NHS app, but clarified that individuals would not be compelled to carry physical ID or present it on demand. This approach aligns with broader government consultations that have sought public input on digital identity development, emphasising the need to balance security, privacy, and accessibility. Official responses from these consultations have reaffirmed commitments to data protection, user trust, and ensuring that no one is denied access to services due to digital ID requirements, with alternative access pathways for those unable to use digital verification.
Public attitude surveys conducted as part of these consultations reveal significant privacy concerns remain a major barrier to acceptance of digital identity systems. Many respondents, particularly younger demographics, expressed worries over data sharing and potential misuse, highlighting a need for transparent communication and robust security protocols to build confidence in the new infrastructure. The government’s sectoral analysis underlines the importance of addressing these concerns to facilitate widespread adoption while respecting individual privacy rights.
In sum, while the proposed digital ID system aims to modernise the UK’s approach to identity verification with a focus on limiting data collection and protecting privacy, it faces a contentious political and public landscape. The government continues to navigate between the goals of improving immigration control, enhancing security, and safeguarding civil liberties as the scheme moves towards potential implementation.
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Source: Noah Wire Services
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
8
Notes:
The narrative was published on 28 September 2025, aligning with recent announcements about the UK’s proposed digital ID system. The earliest known publication date of similar content is 25 September 2025, when Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced plans for mandatory digital ID cards. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/03264e6728c88892b280afcd1323395b?utm_source=openai)) The report appears to be original, with no evidence of recycled content. The narrative is based on a press release, which typically warrants a high freshness score. No discrepancies in figures, dates, or quotes were identified. The content is current and relevant, with no signs of being republished across low-quality sites or clickbait networks. The update may justify a higher freshness score but should still be flagged.
Quotes check
Score:
9
Notes:
The direct quotes attributed to Lord Richard Hermer in the report do not appear in earlier material, suggesting they are original or exclusive content. No identical quotes were found in prior publications. The wording of the quotes matches the reported statements, with no variations identified.
Source reliability
Score:
7
Notes:
The narrative originates from The Irish News, a reputable news outlet. However, the report includes a press release, which typically warrants a high freshness score. The Attorney General, Lord Richard Hermer, is a verifiable public figure with a legitimate website. ([gov.uk](https://www.gov.uk/government/people/richard-hermer?utm_source=openai)) The source appears reliable, with no indications of being unverifiable or fabricated.
Plausability check
Score:
8
Notes:
The claims about the UK’s proposed digital ID system align with recent announcements and discussions. The narrative provides specific details, including the Attorney General’s statements and the context of the Labour Party conference. The language and tone are consistent with the region and topic, with no inconsistencies noted. The report does not include excessive or off-topic details unrelated to the claim. The tone is formal and appropriate for a government-related announcement.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH
Summary:
The narrative is current, original, and sourced from a reputable outlet. The quotes are unique and consistent with the reported statements. The claims are plausible and supported by recent developments. No significant credibility risks were identified.
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