Summary
The UK government plans to consult the public about including 13 to 16-year-olds in a digital ID rollout. This proposal, part of a wider digital ID scheme slated for introduction before 2029, has faced opposition, leading to a petition with nearly three million signatures. Government officials state that digital IDs aim to simplify access to services and improve security, though they won't be mandatory for everyone.
Key Facts
- The UK government is considering whether children aged 13 to 16 should have digital IDs.
- A digital ID scheme is planned to be introduced in the UK before 2029.
- A petition opposing the national ID system has garnered nearly three million signatures.
- Some believe digital IDs could lead to extensive government surveillance.
- Digital IDs aim to help manage illegal migration and simplify service access.
- The digital ID will be free for UK citizens and legal residents aged 16 and over, with possible inclusion of younger teens.
- The system is not based on mandatory cards but digital IDs, and it will be required for some applications.
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised India's digital ID system as a successful model.
