I am totally opposed to the introduction of Digital ID cards in the United Kingdom. The strength of public opposition could not be clearer, with over 2.4 million people signing a petition calling on the Government to scrap any such plans.
Digital ID cards represent a fundamental threat to privacy and civil liberties. They would open the door to mass surveillance and control of ordinary citizens’ lives, something that has no place in a free and democratic society.
Some have tried to argue that Digital ID cards would help stop the influx of illegal migrants. That claim is complete nonsense. The challenges at our borders cannot and will not be solved by forcing law-abiding citizens to carry a digital identity card. Tackling illegal migration requires firm action on border security, not intrusive measures against our own people.
The United Kingdom has rightly rejected ID card schemes in the past. They are expensive, intrusive, unnecessary, and ultimately ineffective. Introducing them now under the guise of security or modernisation would only further erode public trust.
I will stand firmly against any attempt by the Government to impose Digital ID cards on the people of this country. The public have spoken loudly and clearly: we do not want a digital ID system, and we will not accept one.
The Government must listen, respect the will of the people, and immediately rule out this dangerous and unwanted policy.
Alex Easton MP
Member of Parliament for North Down
