Andy Burnham is set to scrap plans to introduce a digital ID scheme as part of his initial policy changes as the new Prime Minister.
In September 2025, the Government announced that digital IDs would be introduced in the UK as a means of tackling illegal working and improving individuals’ access to services. It was originally proposed that digital IDs would be mandatory in order for an individual to work in the UK. However, the Government u-turned on these plans in January 2026 saying that whilst digital right to work checks would become mandatory, registering for the new digital ID scheme would be optional.
Now, it has been announced that the digital ID scheme will be abandoned to focus resources on improving everyday life and strengthening local economies. A spokesperson for Mr Burnham said the "time and resource that was going to be spent on a national ID scheme will go instead to where it's most needed, such as helping with the cost of living".
Changes to right to work checks that will extend the prevention of illegal working regime to organisations that are hiring individuals on zero-hours contracts or in the gig economy are still expected to come into force on 1 October 2026.
