Friday January 16th 2026
MSP for Midlothian North and Musselburgh Colin Beattie
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
Colin Beattie MSP has reacted to the UK Government’s latest u-turn surrounding the proposed plans for a digital ID scheme, explaining that he could not see ‘justification for spending a large amount of money on the policy’.
On Tuesday, the Government announced that they have dropped plans for the proposed mandatory digital ID that required workers to sign up to a new system in order to prove their right to work in the UK.
Instead, Labour ministers explain that existing checks, such as biometric passports, will move fully online by 2029, creating no reason for the proposed scheme.
Colin Beattie MSP explained:
“I am pleased that the UK Government have finally listened to SNP MPs and performed yet another U-turn on their Digital ID scheme as I cannot see the justification for spending a large amount of money on a policy with no clear outcomes or benefits.
“Whilst I had no fundamental objection to introducing a national entitlement card of some sort, No thought had been given to citizens without access to smart phones or any wider risk analysis as to its introduction”
Concerns were also raised in the Borders when Councillor James Anderson put a motion forward to the Scottish Borders Council in December to acknowledge that it ‘raises significant concerns from some members of the public about privacy’.
When first announced Midlothian MP Kirsty McNeill welcomed the announcement explaining that it would ‘free up vital time for front-line workers and relieve people from unnecessary admin’.
Following the u-turn, Kirtsy McNeill explained:
“It has always been the case that the details of the system will be worked out during consultation, but the principle of the policy remains unchanged.
“Our Labour government remains committed to Digital ID and bringing the state into the 21st century. Having a form of ID fit for the modern digital age will make life easier – no more hunting through drawers for old council tax bills or going to the bank to get your printed bank statement signed – it will all be there within one click.”
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