Thank you for contacting me about identity cards.
I believe that the introduction of mandatory identity cards would be detrimental to privacy and individual liberty and would require undue intrusion by the state. Previous research undertaken for the Cabinet Office found that nine in ten people already hold a valid and recognisable form of photographic identification, and the Government has previously ruled out the introduction of compulsory digital ID cards.
As you may be aware, the previous Government published its digital identity trust framework to make it faster and easier for people to verify their identity using modern technology. These digital identities would not entail new identity cards as they would not be mandatory, an essential principle if such a system is to work, and would also require that all data sharing remains compliant with existing data protection laws. While I appreciate there are still concerns around digital identity systems, I believe they can have benefits if citizens have a genuine choice whether to participate.
I understand that the Government has announced plans to roll out digital IDs for all overseas citizens, replacing the former Biometric Residence Permit cards. I recognise that such digital IDs could help tackle illegal migration by ensuring that only those who are entitled to access public services and benefits can do so, and I look forward to scrutinising the Government’s proposals closely once further details have been made available.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
Sincerely,
