Starmer mulls digital ID for small boat control. Official: UK lagging in national ID rollout.

Sir Keir Starmer is considering the introduction of digital ID cards to address small boat crossings, as confirmed by Downing Street.

The government is contemplating the rollout of digital ID technology, although it is uncertain if ID cards would become mandatory. This decision follows remarks from Pat McFadden, a top minister of Sir Keir, who expressed that Britain is lagging behind and advocated for digital IDs.

Despite previous reluctance from No 10 to use digital ID cards to deter Channel crossings, there have been calls from prominent figures like former Prime Minister Tony Blair. The government is open to exploring effective measures to tackle illegal migration and address the factors driving it.

Advocates have expressed concerns about mandatory digital ID cards, with Big Brother Watch warning of a potential "dystopian nightmare" and increased burden on law-abiding citizens. However, proponents argue that digital IDs could disrupt illegal activities and benefit fraud.

Suggestions have been made to adopt a system similar to Estonia, where citizens have unique identification numbers. The aim is to combat small boat crossings and prevent illegal employment, which has been highlighted as a pull factor for migrants entering the UK.

Plans to accommodate migrants in modular buildings and repurposed industrial sites are being discussed, as pressure mounts on Sir Keir to address the issue of asylum hotels housing migrants. The government is focused on taking swift and decisive action to tackle illegal migration, including cooperation with French authorities and exploring options like digital ID.