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A "BritCard": Labour's Proposed Mandatory Digital ID and Wallet for the UK
Ready for a digital revolution in the UK? Labour Together, a think tank closely tied to the Labour Party, has put forth an intriguing proposal: "BritCard". This nifty piece of tech isn't just your average digital wallet, oh no, it's a comprehensive digital identity credential mandatory for every adult in Blighty.
What's the Plan?
The BritCard is set to be an extension of existing systems – One Login and Gov.UK Wallet, which will receive a trendy makeover under this new initiative[1][2]. The main objectives behind the BritCard are twofold: one, helping nip illegal migration in the bud by streamlining right-to-rent and right-to-work checks; and two, acting as a shiny new gateway for accessing all sorts of government services. In fact, it could potentially blend existing ID systems like national insurance numbers and driving licenses[1].
Now, how do you get your hands on this digital goldmine? Simple, it'll be available as a smartphone app, baby[5].
But what's the price tag on this high-tech identity shield? Some estimates suggest it'll cost between £140 million and £400 million, which is reportedly modest in comparison to other notorious infrastructure projects[1][5].
Controversies and Concerns
Can't resist the allure of a mandatory digital identity, can you? Hold your horses! The obligatory nature of the BritCard might give rise to worries about privacy and good old-fashioned freedom[2].
And remind you of the infamous poll tax? Some have likened this ambitious initiative to the controversial measure due to its potential impact and potential backlash[2].
The Grand Strategy
The BritCard is part of a strategic approach by Labour Together for a "progressive migration policy" aimed at addressing concerns about illegal migration by ushering in a universal digital ID system[5]. So, strap in, citizen, the future is digital, and it's coming to a smartphone near you!
[1] - https://labourtogether.org/post/britcard-a-progressive-solutioner-immigration
[2] - https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/labour-party-pushed-to-acknowledge-identity-card-scheme-price-tag-lc6t8hg2t
[3] - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-61603801
[4] - https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2021/jun/25/labour-party-to-propose-new-national-identity-card
[5] - https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/labour-to-set-out-plans-for-massative-online-voter-registration-n3qx6z6cn
Artificial intelligence and technology are integral parts of the proposed "BritCard" digital identity system by Labour Together, as the digital wallet and ID credential could potentially incorporate artificial intelligence for various purposes, such as streamlining immigration checks and accessing government services.
Embracing the BritCard, if mandatory, may have implications for privacy and freedom, as some have raised concerns about its potential impact on individual rights and autonomy in keeping with their personal data.
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