I was on Question Time last year when plans for mandatory digital ID cards were leaked to the press.
At the time, I and many others said this was a dead cat policy - something designed to distract the public from the issues facing the Government.
This was an ill-thought-out policy, hastily announced and, crucially, it risked fundamentally changing the relationship between the state and the public.
I was against it then, and have been against it ever since.
I explain why, here: Why I'm against mandatory digital ID cards | Dr Luke Evans MP
I'd also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who wrote to me about the policy.
I always appreciate hearing your opinions, and in my letter to the Government, I shared some of the questions and concerns that people across our area had raised with me.
You can read my full letter to the Secretary of State here: My letter to the Government about mandatory digital ID cards | Dr Luke Evans MP
You may recall that a question people had about the proposal was what 'mandatory' meant for people who don't want a digital ID card or are unable to have one, such as the digitally excluded.
I raised this with the Secretary of State, who only responded about what penalties might apply to employers - not the individual.
You can watch my question here: I raise key questions over mandatory digital ID cards | Dr Luke Evans MP
Like many people across our area, I'm pleased to see the Government confirm that digital ID cards will not be mandatory for workers.
But the question the Prime Minister must now answer is: why did he move to make these mandatory in the first place?
While a digital ID card for workers will no longer be mandatory, the Government has said it is still looking to use digital ID cards. As there remains many questions, I will keep scrutinising the plans and any legislation that comes forward.
Rest assured, I'll be actively following up on the details and will keep you updated!
