LIBERTY RESPONDS TO DIGITAL ID CONSULTATION

Liberty, the human rights organisation, has responded to the launch of the Government’s consultation on digital ID.

Akiko Hart, Liberty director, said: “The public is finally getting a chance to have its say on digital ID after months of the Government repeatedly flip-flopping on its approach.

“If the Government is serious about introducing digital ID, it must be voluntary and inclusive from the start. Any system must be built in a genuinely rights-respecting way, with clear safeguards for how people’s data is collected, stored, and shared.

“This scheme forms part of a broader pattern that risks weakening people’s protections online. We have seen the rolling out of facial recognition while consulting on its regulation, erosion of data rights, and an attack on end-to-end encryption. The Government should take this opportunity to prioritise its commitment to protecting people’s privacy, online safety and fundamental rights.”