Burnham Scraps Digital ID, Prioritizes Cost of Living Measures
Incoming Prime Minister redirects £1.8 billion project to tackle economic pressures, signaling a clear break from previous policy.
Sarah Connor
Andy Burnham will formally assume the role of prime minister, immediately pivoting government resources from a national digital ID scheme to new cost of living support measures.
This decision marks the first significant policy departure from Sir Keir Starmer's previous administration, which had outlined plans for a mandatory digital ID for right-to-work checks.
The incoming prime minister's government will redirect resources initially earmarked for the national ID scheme toward new cost of living support measures, which he will announce on Monday.
Beyond the immediate financial implications, the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) projected the digital ID project would cost £1.8 billion over the coming years.
A parliamentary committee previously noted the government did not provide its own cost estimate for the national ID scheme, leaving open the possibility it could exceed the OBR's £1.8 billion figure.
Labour's deputy leader, Lucy Powell, stated the decision to scrap the digital ID is not solely about the money; the new government executes a broader strategic realignment.
Eliminating the digital ID enables Burnham's government to bring a 'laser focus' to tackling the cost of living, rewiring the economy, and reforming the political system.
Powell added that eliminating the digital ID enables Burnham's government to bring a 'laser focus' to tackling the cost of living, rewiring the economy, and reforming the political system.
She claimed this move will 'clear the decks' of potential distractions from Mr. Burnham's agenda, allowing for a concentrated effort on core priorities.
Indeed, Burnham's team indicated the decision to scrap digital ID is part of a 'reset of priorities' Mr. Burnham will outline upon taking office.
However, Julia Lopez claimed Burnham attempts to take credit for a decision already made, suggesting he pretends to ride to the rescue after Conservatives pressured the government on mandatory ID.
Lisa Smart stated Burnham recognized the sums allocated for digital ID would constitute a significant waste of taxpayer money, validating concerns over public expenditure.
Kemi Badenoch criticized Burnham for not detailing his plans before Monday, claiming he is a people pleaser who avoids scrutiny and tough questions.
This criticism reflects a historical tension in British politics, where new leaders often face immediate demands for detailed policy blueprints even before formally taking office.
Despite these criticisms, Burnham has pledged to honor Labour's 2024 manifesto commitments, which stated the party would not issue new North Sea licenses.
The 2024 manifesto argued new licenses would 'not take a penny off bills' or improve energy security while accelerating climate change, establishing a clear environmental stance.
In his first speech from Downing Street, Burnham is expected to set out measures to provide 'breathing space' on the cost of living, while elaborating on his commitment to devolve power away from Westminster and ensure economic growth throughout the UK.
This commitment to devolution echoes decades of calls for regional empowerment, aiming to rebalance economic opportunities away from the capital.
Meanwhile, despite the manifesto's stance, Ms. Powell appeared to temper rumors about Andy Burnham's position on oil and gas drilling, indicating a 'change of emphasis' in the North Sea while adhering to manifesto commitments.
Powell clarified she was not expecting a 'change of policy' but 'more a change of emphasis' regarding North Sea drilling, describing North Sea gas and oil as an important part of the transition to homegrown, clean, and cheaper energy.
Sources close to the incoming prime minister indicated he is 'open-minded' about the policy of new North Sea drilling, despite media reports suggesting he would announce new drilling.
Beyond energy policy, Jack Coulson claimed the government's approach to social media restrictions will lead to a de facto mandatory ID regime for the internet, raising concerns about digital liberties.
Burnham has pledged to reach out to other parties and end a culture of political 'point scoring' at Westminster, an offer Sir Ed Davey has already extended support for cross-party talks.
Kemi Badenoch countered, stating she would 'score as many points as possible if it means the right thing for the country,' rejecting the call for an end to political contention.
Speculation about Cabinet positions, expected on Monday, is 'horrible and unedifying,' with senior Labour sources suggesting an expected shake-up of the Foreign Office.
Amidst these policy debates, Ms. Powell described speculation about Cabinet positions, expected on Monday, as 'horrible and unedifying,' with senior Labour sources suggesting an expected shake-up of the Foreign Office.
Ed Miliband is reportedly being considered for Foreign Secretary, a move that would reshape the diplomatic landscape under Burnham's leadership.
Powell stated the Labour Party has handled this transition and come together in a consensus around Andy Burnham being the next leader, suggesting political journalists are looking for other disagreements to write about.