The Rest Is Money 243. Identity crisis: why the government can't make up its mind about Digital IDs
12 snips
Jan 15, 2026 The podcast dives into government U-turns on digital ID cards and business rates, examining their potential economic fallout. It highlights how changes in business rates are hurting small establishments like pubs and bookstores. The discussion also covers the ambitious Northern Powerhouse Rail plans and their implications for regional growth. Shifting focus, the hosts analyze Donald Trump's interventions in the US, comparing his actions to historic state socialism, and warn of possible economic repercussions.
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U-Turns Reveal Poor Policy Preparation
- The government made two major U-turns: compulsory digital IDs for new jobs and planned business rates increases.
- Robert Peston argues poor preparation and rushed announcements caused avoidable political chaos.
Business Rates Undermine Local Investment
- Shrinking business-rate relief hits consumers and deters investment by small firms like bookshops and cafes.
- Steph McGovern warns that uncertainty squeezes growth by blocking staffing and premises investment.
Make The Case Before Mandating IDs
- Build public support by explaining digital ID benefits gradually before mandating them.
- Robert Peston says the government should have made the case over weeks and months instead of announcing abruptly.
