King Charles announces his ministers will proceed with the introduction of Digital ID

King Charles confirmed in the King’s Speech that the government will proceed with a national Digital ID scheme, though it will not be mandatory.

The monarch announced the measure as part of the Digital Access to Services Bill. The public will have the option to use the system, which will be free to access for anyone who chooses to participate.

The digital ID is intended to allow people to prove their identity online in one place for services including free childcare vouchers, tax records, passports and driving licences. Ministers launched a consultation on the scheme in March.

The current voluntary version follows significant backlash against an earlier proposal that would have made digital IDs mandatory. That plan was watered down after widespread opposition.

Sir Keir Starmer had initially pushed for mandatory digital IDs to modernise public services and strengthen right-to-work checks. The revised approach now gives individuals the choice whether to use the system.

The announcement came during the State Opening of Parliament, which also outlined other legislative priorities including immigration, NHS and police reforms.