UK plans mandatory digital ID cards amid pensioner exclusion concerns

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's government plans to introduce mandatory digital ID cards for all UK citizens and legal residents by the end of this Parliament to prove the right to work and help combat illegal immigration. Starmer described the digital ID as an "enormous opportunity" that will make it harder to work illegally while offering citizens easier access to government services. However, the proposals have faced criticism from political opponents and concerns from advocates for older citizens, with over two million people aged 65 and above reportedly not using the internet, risking their exclusion from essential services. Age UK and former Border Force director Tony Smith emphasized the need for "assisted digital" support to ensure elderly people are not left behind and called for a compassionate approach rather than coercion. Critics, including Reform UK and Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, dismissed the plans as ineffective or gimmicks, while some warn that the scheme may not deter migrants due to the scale of the shadow economy. Despite these concerns, Starmer acknowledged previous Labour hesitancy on immigration issues and emphasized the importance of addressing illegal migration comprehensively and responsibly.