UK digital ID plan fuels conspiracies, but government denies it is for control

Plans for a new nationwide UK digital ID are sparking widespread public concern, but some critics including far-right politicians are fuelling fears with unproven claims that it will be used to boost government control over people’s lives.

They have warned that a digital ID would be used to store data on vaccinations and carbon footprint and limit access to flying and food, which the government has vehemently denied.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in September said the ID card would be introduced by 2029. The government has said it would not be mandatory but would be required to prove the right to work.

Nigel Farage, the leader of the anti-immigration party Reform, claimed on TV channel GB News that medical data would soon be added and those unvaccinated would be treated as “second-class citizens”.

“Step out of line, say something they don’t like and they will switch you off: no travel, no car, no spending, no life,” said Renee Hoenderkamp, a doctor and commentator on GB News, a right-wing television channel.