Reeves plays down digital ID U-turn as Tories and Lib Dems criticise PM’s ‘spinelessness’ – UK politics live

Ministers have rolled back central element of digital ID plans, possibly allowing people to use other forms of identification to prove their right to workRachel Reeves, the chancellor, has accused the media of exaggerating the extent of the digital ID U-turn.In an interview on BBC Breakfast this morning, she said:On the digital ID, for starters, I do think this story has been a bit overwritten.We are saying that you will need mandatory digital ID to be able to work in the UK.The key thing is where you’re trying to go. Our government, this government, our focus is on growing the economy and improving living standards for working people.I’m disappointed, but I’m not surprised.I’m not surprised because the original announcement was not followed by a narrative or supportive statements or any kind of strategic plan which involved other ministers and those who are committed to this actually making the case.Net support for digital ID cards fell from 35% in the early summer to -14% at the weekend after Starmer’s announcement, according to polling by More in Common.The findings suggest that the proposal has suffered considerably from its association with an unpopular government. In June, 53% of voters surveyed said they were in favour of digital ID cards for all Britons, while 19% were opposed. Continue reading...