UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Friday announced plans to introduce free digital ID for both nationals and those living in the country in a bid to curb illegal migration.
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The government said the drive will also make it simpler to apply for services like driving licences, childcare and welfare, while streamlining access to tax records.
The new digital ID will be held on people’s phones and there will be no requirement for individuals to carry their ID or be asked to produce it, said the government.
However, it would be “mandatory as a means of proving your right to work,” a statement said.
“It will make it tougher to work illegally in this country, making our borders more secure,” Starmer said in a statement.
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The announcement comes as the ruling Labour Party prepares to hold its annual conference, with Starmer under intense pressure, particularly over immigration.