Burnley Council opposes mandatory digital ID
Wednesday evening’s meeting of Burnley Full Council unanimously passed motion on the issue
Burnley Council has formally committed itself to opposing any introduction of mandatory digital identity cards as recently mooted by the government.
It has pledged not to implement any local mandatory digital ID requirements unless required by law:
Wednesday evening’s meeting of Burnley Full Council unanimously passed motion on the issue, proposed by Trinity ward Green Cllr Martyn Hurt and seconded by group boss Cllr Jack Launer.
It delegates authority leader Cllr Afrasiab Anwar to write to all council leaders in Lancashire to make them aware of the motion opposing mandatory ID cards and encourage similar resolutions.
It says: “This council opposes the introduction of mandatory digital ID cards in the UK and calls upon the government to abandon such proposals.
“Burnley is amongst the most digitally excluded areas in Lancashire, with barriers including affordability, lack of access to devices, and limited digital infrastructure in some neighbourhoods.
“Mandatory digital ID would effectively exclude these vulnerable Burnley residents from accessing essential services and participating fully in society, exacerbating existing inequalities.
The meeting resolved to formally opposes the introduction of mandatory digital ID cards in the UK and write to the Prime Minister highlighting the concerns outlined in this motion, with particular emphasis on the impact on Burnley residents.