The so-called ‘BritCard’ was initially described as ‘voluntary’, but the card will be necessary if you want to get a job
This week the government announced plans for every adult in the UK to carry a digital ID card with them. This could be used to prove a person has the right to work in this country, and even to access public services.
People would need to show the so-called ‘BritCard’ when starting a new job and it would then be automatically checked against a central database of those entitled to work in the UK.
The legalities are still yet to be approved, but the new system would allow officials to see what check had been carried out and compare that with HMRC payroll data to guide immigration enforcement, the Daily Star reports.
However the announcement was met with plenty of backlash and a petition reached well over 1million signatures to oppose the plans made by Labour. Only a selection of other countries use the system, such as North Korea – but the countries instead use a physical ID.
It’s said that Starmer himself had been initially sceptical about the plan – a long-term hobby horse of former PM Tony Blair – with concerns about civil liberties. But he reportedly has changed his stance and is convinced of the need to back the scheme.
The plans are said to be an attempt to tackle the small boats problem. Home secretary Shabana Mahmood said earlier this month she was “very clear” that the government had to deal with the factors that were making the UK “a destination of choice for those that are on the move around the world”.
She said: “I want to make sure that we can clamp down on that. I think that a system of digital ID can also help with illegal working enforcement of other laws as well. I do think that that has a role to play for dealing with our migration. My long-term personal political view has always been in favour of ID cards.”
But the issue of what would happen to Brits unwilling to download the app has not yet been discussed. The scheme was described as voluntary.
However, it will be compulsory for anyone wishing to work, but remain optional for those not seeking employment. In other countries such as North Korea – lack of ID card could lead to far more serious issues.
For employees, the digital ID will serve as the mandatory method for verifying their Right to Work, while other citizens can choose whether to use it or not.
As for punishment, it appears refusal will not gain any legal action, but could leave Brits unable to get a job.
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