UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has turned to India for inspiration as his government prepares to introduce a nationwide digital identification system. During his two-day visit to Mumbai, Starmer met with Nandan Nilekani, co-founder of Infosys and the chief architect of India’s Aadhaar digital ID programme, which was launched in 2009.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, the Prime Minister’s spokesperson Dave Pares said Starmer “wanted to hear from him” as the UK government explores how to design and implement a secure digital identity system for British citizens and migrants.
Starmer has outlined plans for a smartphone-based digital ID in the UK, describing it as a key tool to prevent illegal work and make access to government services more efficient. The proposed system would require migrants to show their digital ID to prove their right to work, a measure he said would help tackle illegal employment. He added that the government should encourage broader use of the system among citizens, calling it “a good passport.”
During his remarks in Mumbai, Starmer highlighted the potential convenience of a unified digital identity, saying, “I don’t know how many times the rest of you have had to look in the bottom drawer for three bills when you want to get your kids into school, or apply for this or apply for that. I do think we could gain a significant advantage.”
If implemented, the digital ID would allow users to access multiple government services through one secure portal, reducing paperwork and administrative delays. However, the idea remains controversial in the UK. Similar proposals were rejected in the 2000s amid widespread concerns that such systems could lead to government overreach, mass surveillance, and the misuse of personal data.
Starmer insisted that his proposal is focused on improving security and convenience rather than expanding government control. “It is needed to address the fact that too many people can come to this country to work illegally,” he said, stressing the importance of balancing efficiency with privacy protections.
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