The Plan for a UK-Wide Digital ID and Wallet: Introducing BritCard
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In a groundbreaking move, the Labour think-tank Labour Together has floated an idea for a universal digital ID system called BritCard. This innovative scheme seeks to provide all UK adults with a mandatory digital identification, revamping the way we verify our identities and access vital services. Here's the lowdown on the BritCard proposal:
The Why and the How
- The Agenda: The driving force behind BritCard is twofold: tightening up anti-illegal migration efforts through more robust right-to-rent and right-to-work checks, harnessing the power of the Digital Identity and Attributes Framework (DIATF).
- The Perks: Citizens would reap the benefits of streamlined digital access to government services, potentially consolidating existing ID systems such as national insurance numbers and driving licenses. BritCard could even serve as a neat gateway to accessing services like the National Health Service (NHS)[1][4].
The Technical Nitty-Gritty
- The Foundation: BritCard will be built on top of the existing One Login and Gov.UK Wallet, with a refresh and rebranding to BritCard[1][2].
- The Price Tag: The projected cost to implement BritCard ranges from £140-400 million, a relatively modest investment compared to other large-scale infrastructure projects[1][4].
The Rollout and Aftermath
- The Mandate: BritCard will be obligatory, meaning all adults will be required to use it or risk being cut off[2].
- The App: The BritCard app will be a free download available on smartphones, ensuring broad accessibility[4].
- The Patriotism Factor: The BritCard proposal is rooted in the idea of civic nationalism, aiming for widespread acceptance by presenting it as a solution to illegal immigration[2].
The Political Landscape
- The Idea Factory: The origin of BritCard lies with Labour Together, a think tank closely allied with the Labour Party, formerly led by Morgan McSweeney, who is now Chief of Staff to Sir Keir Starmer[1][3].
- The Comparisons: The mandatory aspect of BritCard draws parallels with the poll tax, potentially stirring controversy for Sir Keir Starmer[2].
[1] Guardian, Digital ID scheme proposed by Labour think-tank would require every UK adult to use new app
[2] Politico, UK Labour unveils controversial digital ID scheme
[3] BBC, Morgan McSweeney: The Labour ideas man driving Keir Starmer's policy revolution
[4] Sky News, Digital ID and wallet could be compulsory for every adult in UK, Labour proposes
[5] Times, Labour Launches Controversial Proposal for National Digital ID System
In line with the BritCard proposal, citizens may utilize this digital ID system as a means to access various government services, effectively consolidating existing ID systems like national insurance numbers and driving licenses. Conversely, the BritCard app could simplify access to services such as the National Health Service (NHS) through the power of technological advancements. With the app's anticipated availability on smartphones, the digital ID system will likely promote broad accessibility, serving as an essential gadget in modern daily life.
