PLANS to scrap the compulsory digital ID system has been welcomed by the Meriden and Solihull East MP.
Saqib Bhatti MP says the U-turn is a huge win for his constituents who voiced concerns over proposals.
The Government’s announcement follows sustained campaigning by Conservative MPs and supporters, including a petition opposing digital ID, which was backed by more than 4,500 residents across Meriden and Solihull East and 2.9million people nationally.
Last September the Government announced a new digital ID programme that would make digital ID mandatory for right-to-work verification by the end of this Parliament, branded by critics as a Brit card initiative.
Labour ministers argued the digital ID would help reduce illegal working and streamline access to services without clarifying how those operating in the black economy would be forced to comply.
The proposals sparked controversy and significant pushback, with civil society groups and commentators warning the plan risked mission creep, excessive state control of personal data, and the erosion of civil liberties.
Mr Bhatti said: “We should never take our privacy for granted and millions across the country have delivered a powerful message to the government.
“This is a huge win for the thousands of people across Meriden and Solihull East who made their voices heard.
“I want to thank every single one of them because it was clear that the government’s approach would have undermined personal freedoms, public trust and privacy.
“While moving away from mandatory ID checks is welcome the situation is very unclear. How much will the remaining scheme cost? Does the government still think this will tackle illegal immigration?
“As a Conservative, I will always defend individual liberties and will stand up for protections against state intrusion.”
