THE Scottish Government has firmly opposed plans from the Labour Government to introduce compulsory digital ID for all UK adults.
Keir Starmer is expected to announce the full details of the policy as early as Friday, despite Labour having explicitly ruled the policy out just after winning the General Election last year.
The so-called "Brit Card" would provide proof of an individual's right to live and work in the UK, and would need to be shown when starting a new job or renting a home.
Before it can be rolled out, the proposals would be subject to consultation and would first require legislation to be passed in the House of Commons.
The policy has already garnered a mixed reaction from politicians, with some branding it as "excessive state interference" and a "dystopian mess".
The Scottish Government has now confirmed it is opposed the plans.
The National also understands the Scottish Government is engaging with UK ministers to understand the implications of the policy on Scotland.
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “The Scottish Government is opposed to the introduction of any card that is compulsory to have, compulsory to carry or that anyone can demand to see, including that of a digital ID.”
The Digital ID proposals are part of the UK Government's plans to tackle illegal migration, amid concerns over the ability to produce fraudulent documents.
Digital ID is believed to be more difficult to fake than physical ID such as driving licences and passports, which workers are required to show when they begin employment.
Once Digital ID cards are rolled out, immigration enforcement staff could use the system to see which checks have been completed and use it to trace individuals working illegally.
The change in policy marks the latest U-turn in Keir Starmer's government.
The plans were put forward in June by think tank Labour Together but were previously rejected by senior party figures.
