Full Breakdown
Protests Erupt Against Digital ID in Edinburgh
4/24/2026, 12:13:35 AM
Massive Display at Edinburgh Castle
A significant protest against the UK Government's planned implementation of Digital ID took place in Edinburgh, where a large display was projected onto the historic Edinburgh Castle. The demonstration, organized by the Together Declaration, featured a looped video that included scenes from the House of Commons and footage from previous protests, conveying the message, “The fight against digital ID is not over…” This event was part of a series of protests scheduled across the four capitals of the United Kingdom—London, Edinburgh, Belfast, and Cardiff—on April 25.
Leadership and Objectives of the Together Declaration
The Together Declaration, led by Alan Miller, is vocal in its opposition to the Digital ID initiative, which they argue infringes on privacy and civil liberties. The group has expressed particular concern over Labour leader Keir Starmer's attempts to implement a national digital ID system. Although Starmer's government recently reversed its position on making Digital ID mandatory, he maintains that such measures are necessary to address illegal immigration in the UK. Starmer stated, “The purpose of it was to stop people working illegally in the country... that’s the overriding consideration for me.”
Public Sentiment and Ongoing Consultation
The ongoing consultation regarding Digital ID has received mixed reactions from the public. While some have noted a shift in the scope and tone of the discussions, others feel insulted that the proposed identification system would not include a person's sex. Miller has criticized the lack of public debate surrounding the Digital ID initiative, arguing that “the public hasn’t had a chance to debate any of these things.” He has called for the government to focus on establishing a national bill of rights instead.
Criticism of Government Actions
Critics of the Digital ID initiative, including Miller, have highlighted the implications of forcing individuals into a one-login system without adequate discussion. He pointed out that “eight million directors are being forced into it” and referenced the Children Wellbeing and Schools Bill, which imposes unique digital identifiers on children. This has raised concerns about the broader implications of digital identification on civil liberties.
Upcoming Protests
The Together Declaration protests are set to provide a platform for public dissent against the government's direction regarding Digital ID. Participants are encouraged to voice their concerns at the events scheduled across the UK capitals, marking a significant moment for those opposed to the initiative.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The fight against digital ID is not over…” — Together Declaration
- “The purpose of it was to stop people working illegally in the country. In the end, that’s the overriding consideration for me, because too many people are working illegally in our country.” — Keir Starmer
- “There’s been no debate and it’s not been in any manifesto” — Alan Miller
This protest reflects a growing unease among segments of the population regarding the implications of digital identification and the perceived lack of public discourse on the matter.
