Andy Burnham to scrap digital ID to focus on cost of living in first major policy pledge

Incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced he will scrap the government-issued digital ID project upon taking office this Monday. The move marks a shift in policy as his administration moves to prioritize the cost of living crisis over national identity schemes.

The project was originally launched by Sir Keir Starmer with the goal of verifying worker identities and streamlining access to public services. Despite projections placing the cost at over £1.8 billion, the scheme faced intense public scrutiny. A parliamentary petition against the program gained nearly three million signatures, prompting the government to switch from a mandatory to a voluntary model earlier this year.

A spokesperson for Burnham stated that the move represents a shift toward strengthening local economies. By redirecting the funds previously earmarked for the digital ID program, the new government aims to address immediate financial pressures facing households across the country.

Reaction to the decision remains mixed. Opposition politicians expressed relief that the data collection project ended, though some raised concerns about the money already spent on the initial planning phases. Conservative Shadow technology secretary Julia Lopez questioned the timing of the announcement and the status of previous policy commitments.

The decision regarding digital IDs accompanies reports that the new Prime Minister intends to pursue accelerated oil and gas drilling in the North Sea. These moves signal a fast start for the incoming administration as it seeks to define its legislative agenda immediately after the transition of power.