Digital ID Debate Deepens: UK Government Eyes Teen Inclusion

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The UK government has announced a public consultation on expanding its proposed digital ID scheme to include children aged 13 and above. The move, part of a broader national rollout by 2029, has sparked intense public backlash, with nearly 3 million petition signatures opposing it. Parliament is set to debate the issue.

The UK’s digital identity initiative, originally aimed at streamlining public services and curbing illegal migration, is now under scrutiny as the government considers extending it to teenagers aged 13 to 15. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s administration confirmed that a formal consultation will be launched to assess the feasibility and implications of this expansion.

The announcement follows a wave of public opposition. A petition against the digital ID scheme—criticized as a potential tool for mass surveillance—has garnered close to 3 million signatures, triggering a mandatory parliamentary debate. The government’s response to the petition revealed its intent to explore whether younger teens should be included in the rollout.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper defended the proposal, stating that many 13-year-olds already use forms of digital identification and that a standardized system could enhance access to services and employment. However, critics argue that mandatory digital IDs for minors raise serious ethical, privacy, and civil liberty concerns.

Key Highlights:

- Public Consultation Announced
The government will seek public input on whether children aged 13–15 should be part of the digital ID rollout planned by 2029.

- Teen Inclusion Under Review
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) confirmed the consultation will consider lowering the age threshold from 16 to 13.

- Massive Public Backlash
A petition opposing the scheme has attracted nearly 3 million signatures, citing fears of surveillance and digital control.

- Parliamentary Debate Incoming
Due to the petition’s popularity, MPs will debate the digital ID proposal in the coming weeks.

- Government’s Defense
Yvette Cooper emphasized that many teens already use digital IDs and that the system could improve access to services.

- Privacy Concerns Persist
Critics warn that including minors could normalize surveillance and erode digital autonomy from a young age.

Sources: MSN News, Biometric Update, The Independent, The Telegraph, GOV.UK