Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

62% of Britons Support Digital ID Amid Privacy Concerns

9/25/2025

26 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Tony Blair Institute advocates a digital ID 'superapp' to streamline public services and curb illegal immigration.
A survey shows 62% of Britons back digital ID, with interest in using it for pothole reporting and missed collections.
Critics warn of data breaches and privacy risks; Liberty urges Sir Keir Starmer to drop mandatory digital ID plans.

History

Historical Context

The UK government abandoned its National Identity Scheme in 2013, which aimed to introduce biometric ID cards at an estimated cost of £5.4 billion over ten years. This decision followed public opposition and the repeal of the Identity Cards Act 2006. Today, discussions around a digital ID 'superapp' by the Tony Blair Institute reignite debates on identity verification, privacy, and civil liberties.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Tony Blair Institute advocates a digital ID 'superapp' to streamline public services and curb illegal immigration.
A survey shows 62% of Britons back digital ID, with interest in using it for pothole reporting and missed collections.
Critics warn of data breaches and privacy risks; Liberty urges Sir Keir Starmer to drop mandatory digital ID plans.

1 / 2