View 2 Images

Sir Keir Starmer has said digital IDs will "cut the faff" as he sought to win back public support for the scheme following significant backlash in recent weeks.

The Prime Minister insisted the identification system would be voluntary and denied reports it would be needed to get into hospital.

This clarification comes amid concerns about its potential impact on accessing public services, civil liberties and data protection.

The proposed smartphone identification announced by Sir Keir last month, with plans for it to be introduced by 2029, would be mandatory for anyone working in the UK.

The scheme is part of efforts to clamp down on illegal working and therefore curb illegal migration.

However, at a visit to a Barclays branch in Brighton on Thursday, the Prime Minis

See Full Page