by Frank Bergman
Every citizen in Britain could soon be forced to sign up for a digital ID card after French President Emmanuel Macron demanded action on illegal immigration.
The UK’s socialist Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has reportedly told his Cabinet that he is “exploring options” for a digital ID scheme.
The plan is supposedly part of sweeping reforms aimed at cracking down on illegal working.
Downing Street confirmed the plans, marking the return of a proposal scrapped 15 years ago after widespread public outcry over civil liberties.
Under the new scheme, Britons could be required to show a digital ID before starting a new job, renting a home, claiming benefits, or even accessing public services.
Critics warn that this represents a massive step toward a surveillance state.
Far-left Labour Party ministers had only recently dismissed the idea.
In July, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said ID cards were “not our approach.”
But Macron, whose government has struggled to contain waves of illegal migration into France, has pressed Britain to eliminate what his allies describe as “pull factors” for migrants.
Some in Paris have derided Britain as an “El Dorado for migrants” due to its lax rules.