By MARTIN BECKFORD IN MUMBAI Published: 23:25 BST, 8 October 2025 | Updated: 07:52 BST, 9 October 2025
Keir Starmer wants to expand the use of controversial digital IDs to cover Britons' everyday lives.The Prime Minister announced last month that a mandatory system would be introduced so people can prove they have the right to work here – in an attempt to curb illegal migration.But Sir Keir has now said the system could also be used on a voluntary basis by citizens to prove identity and make it easier to apply for public services, such as childcare and benefits. And he will press ahead with the radical policy despite tumbling public support.Sir Keir, during his trade mission to Mumbai, met IT giant Infosys' Nandan Nilekani who founded India's biometric ID system under which more than one billion people have cards.The PM was asked if he had killed off support for digital ID in the UK. He replied: 'We need to address the fact that too many people can come to this country and work illegally, and that's why ID mandatory for working is really important.'But he went on: 'I think there is a case to be made about the benefits for voluntary ID into other areas. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer lights a candle at the Taj Mahal Palace hotel in Mumbai to celebrate the approaching Diwali festival of light during his visit to India Tory MP Alex Burghart (pictured) said: 'What started as a smokescreen for Labour's failure to stop illegal migration is being rapidly expanded. It's obvious they haven't thought this through' (file image)'On the one hand, it's mandatory for work, but I think it'd be a good passport.'Tory MP Alex Burghart said: 'What started as a smokescreen for Labour's failure to stop illegal migration is being rapidly expanded. 'It's obvious they haven't thought this through.'
