The UK is pushing forward controversial plans for a digital ID – what you should know
The government has launched a consultation asking the public to share their views on how digital ID is used to make public services quicker, easier and more secure to access.
From managing free childcare payments to filing tax returns, the consultation will seek views from people on how the system could be used to make public services work better for them.
Alongside the consultation, the government will reveal images and videos of a working prototype of the system showing how people could log on to a single app and prove who they are, ending a reliance on multiple logins and paper documents to access the support they need, saving time and effort.
Government said the app will be as easy to use and secure as online banking, and will be available to those who want it. It will remove the frustration of endless telephone calls, complicated printed forms and people having no idea of how long it will take them to get the support they need. Existing routes to accessing public services will continue to be available for those who prefer them.
The system is part of wider government plans to reform public services, modernise public sector technology and replace legacy systems, to make services work better for people across the country and is expected to save money in the long run, by replacing the expensive legacy paper-based systems currently in place.
“People too often dread their interactions with public services. Endless telephone calls, complicated printed forms and having to tell your story multiple times to different parts of government,” said Darren Jones, Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister.
“I want to change that and make public services work for you. The new digital ID will make that possible, allowing you to log on and prove who you are to access public services more quickly, easily and securely.”
Anyone starting a new job will be able to use the new digital proof of identity for digital right to work checks, which will be required by the end of the Parliament – or they will be able to do a digital check of other documents such as passport or eVisa if they prefer.
The consultation will find out how digital ID can best work for people across the country and use their feedback to build a system that can help them access services and offer the best possible benefits. Questions include:
- At what age you should be able to get a digital ID;
- What information it would be useful to include – such as proof of address as well as identity – to end the scramble for a utility bill or bank statement;
- Which government services it could improve your experience of, for example getting a driving licence or checking your tax code; and
- How we make sure everyone is included.
Alongside the eight-week online consultation, the government will establish a People’s Panel on digital ID, bringing together people across the country from different backgrounds. The panel will have in-depth discussions, sharing different views on the proposals and will agree ways to move forward.
You can find the full consultation here.
