Newscast The Week: ID Cards, Burnham and Johnson Takes on Farage
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Sep 26, 2025 Keir Starmer is set to unveil a digital ID scheme aimed at tackling illegal work and modernizing public services. The discussion dives into the public's perception of this initiative, examining lessons from Estonia's digital ID system. Meanwhile, Andy Burnham's rising profile is scrutinized against the backdrop of potential Labour leadership fallout. The episode also sees Boris Johnson criticizing Nigel Farage and Reform UK, sparking a discussion on Conservative strategies and internal party dynamics.
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Digital ID Pushed As Modernisation Tool
- Keir Starmer has launched a push for a compulsory digital ID to modernise public services and tackle illegal working.
- The policy is framed as both a migration-control measure and a way to reduce everyday paperwork hassle.
Estonia As A Digital ID Reference
- Adam Fleming recalled Estonia's digital ID where cards plug into laptops and public life runs on e-ID.
- He quoted an Estonian entrepreneur who joked the only place they use paper is the toilet.
Checks, Not Ubiquitous Surveillance, Emphasised
- The government emphasises illegal working and rent checks as primary use-cases for the digital ID system.
- Critics question whether checking IDs will meaningfully disrupt cash-in-hand black market work.