# UK Prime Minister Cancels Digital ID Scheme

The new government cancels the digital ID project, redirecting resources to other areas.

- **Source:** [Slashdot](https://brifing.si/source/0f34d58e-1ccd-45a6-ab82-2de4065dc7ad)
- **Published:** 2026-07-18
- **Original article:** <https://news.slashdot.org/story/26/07/18/2214208/next-uk-prime-minister-drops-digital-id-scheme?utm_source=rss1.0mainlinkanon&utm_medium=feed>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/1821a853-922e-4756-bfd8-dbc420aed98c

## Digital ID Scheme Cancelled

The UK's new Prime Minister Andy Burnham has cancelled the digital ID project. The project had been criticized by various political parties, and it was decided to redirect resources to more urgent needs.

## Cost of the Project

The cost of the digital ID project was estimated at around £1.8 billion between the financial years 2026/27 and 2028/29. These resources will now be allocated to other areas.

## Political Reactions

The project was labeled a 'fiasco' by various political parties. Burnham's decision is seen as a response to these criticisms.

## Redistribution of Resources

Resources allocated to the digital ID project will now be redirected to more pressing needs such as the cost of living. This decision aims to alleviate the public's economic hardships.

## Public Reaction

The public had opposed the digital ID project. Burnham's decision is seen as a step in line with these sentiments.

## Future Implications

This decision could reshape the UK's digital transformation strategy. The more effective use of resources could set an example for future projects.

## Sources covering this story

- https://news.slashdot.org/story/26/07/18/2214208/next-uk-prime-minister-drops-digital-id-scheme?utm_source=rss1.0mainlinkanon&utm_medium=feed — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._
