Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleSir Keir Starmer's government plans to introduce digital IDs, which will serve as authoritative proof of identity and residency in the UK. While it will be optional for general use, people will be required to use the digital ID to prove their right to work in the UK. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said the change aims to significantly reduce illegal working by making it harder to falsify documents, as current National Insurance numbers are not linked to photo ID. The digital IDs, which will include personal details and residency status, are expected to be available to UK citizens and legal residents by the end of the current parliamentary term. A consultation process will address how the scheme will work for vulnerable groups and those without smartphones.In fullStarmer’s ID card plan does not mean everyone will have to carry one, minister saysThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

The idea of a mandatory identification system has long been advocated by Labour as a way to tackle illegal migration.

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The ‘Brit card’ could mark the government’s latest attempt to crack down on illegal migration