The Bunker – News without the nonsense House of Cards – Will Starmer’s I.D. card gamble work?
Oct 1, 2025
Dr. Tim Holmes, a criminology lecturer at Bangor University, shares insights on Keir Starmer's controversial digital ID proposal. He discusses the significant public backlash, with 2.4 million opposing signatures. Tim highlights security issues, the risks of centralized data, and the challenge of societal acceptance, especially among non-smartphone users. He warns of government abuse and stresses the need for transparency and strong protections. Their conversation delves into whether such a system can effectively deter crime and improve everyday life.
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Phones Make Identity Fragile And Pervasive
- Phones already contain many identity functions, making loss or denial of access highly disruptive.
- The real barrier to surveillance is social norms, not technology limits.
Include Physical Options For The Excluded
- Provide non-digital alternatives like physical cards for those without smartphones.
- Accept that slower processes may be necessary to ensure inclusion and choice.
ID Databases Become High-Value Targets
- ID schemes increase the value of identity data to organised criminals and hackers.
- Database security must be central given two decades of high-profile breaches.