VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Identity Cards: Digital Technology

Asked by James McMurdockIndependentCabinet OfficeTabled Answered 7 January 2026UIN 100189

The question

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps his Department plans to take to support people with (a) limited or no smartphone access and (b) no prior valid form of ID through the implementation of the digital ID scheme.

Answered by Josh Simons

The digital ID scheme will be underpinned with the principle that no one should be left behind. Making this system work for everyone will be a top priority, including those who don't have smartphones, are elderly, or are less digitally confident, so everyone will benefit from simpler, safer access to services.

We recognise that not everyone has the same level of digital access or confidence, and that’s why the scheme will be accompanied by a major government digital inclusion drive.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim