Technology · 18 July 2026

Andy Burnham scraps digital ID plans to focus on cost of living

The incoming prime minister, upon assuming office on Monday, will abandon plans for a digital ID to be issued by the government to all British adults. His office said resources meant for the scheme will now help with daily priorities like the cost of living. The Office for Budget Responsibility had calculated that the initiative would incur expenses of £1.8 billion across a three-year period.

By BriefTea Editorial · 18 July 2026 at 23:35

Reported by BBC · How we write briefs

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How do other countries use digital IDs? What is a digital ID? What is the cost of living? Why scrap the digital ID?

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