Andy Burnham is expected to scrap Keir Starmer's digital ID card scheme when he enters Downing Street on Monday, redirecting resources towards tackling the cost of living, according to the Guardian.
Key facts
- Andy Burnham is expected to scrap Keir Starmer's digital ID card plans.
- The move is described as a 'reset of priorities' by his team.
- Burnham is set to enter Downing Street on Monday.
- Resources earmarked for the scheme would be redirected to tackling the cost of living.
- His team indicated the plan on Saturday, according to the Guardian.
Andy Burnham is expected to scrap Keir Starmer’s plans for digital ID cards in what his team has described as a “reset of priorities” when he enters Downing Street on Monday, according to the Guardian.
The new Labour leader plans to redirect the resources earmarked for the scheme towards tackling the cost of living, his team indicated on Saturday, the newspaper reported.
The Guardian described the digital ID plan as unpopular. The specific resources that would be reallocated were not detailed in the report.
The decision, if confirmed, would mark an early and visible break from his predecessor’s agenda as Burnham prepares to take office. The Guardian characterised the shift as a reset of priorities intended to focus government attention on household finances.
Further details about the timing, scale and mechanics of scrapping the scheme were not specified in the available reporting.
Why it matters
Digital ID cards have been a contentious policy in British politics, and scrapping them would signal a notable change in direction under a new prime minister. Redirecting resources towards the cost of living reflects a shift in government priorities that could affect households across the country.
Frequently asked questions
What is Andy Burnham expected to do with the digital ID scheme?
According to the Guardian, Burnham is expected to scrap Keir Starmer's plans for digital ID cards as part of a 'reset of priorities' when he enters Downing Street on Monday.
Where will the resources go instead?
His team indicated the resources earmarked for the scheme would be redirected towards tackling the cost of living, the Guardian reported.
When is Burnham expected to take office?
The Guardian reported that Burnham is set to enter Downing Street on Monday.