Story · Andy Burnham
U.K.'s Burnham drops digital ID scheme to prioritise cost of living, say allies
Andy Burnham, set to become UK Prime Minister on July 20, 2026, will scrap the government's digital ID scheme upon taking office, according to his allies. The scheme, designed to tackle illegal migration and estimated to cost £1.8 billion, was deemed a 'fiasco' by a cross-party committee. Burnham's spokesperson said resources will be redirected to cost-of-living support. Labour deputy Lucy Powell confirmed the move signals a reprioritisation of government focus. Burnham will also maintain the previous government's commitment to new North Sea oil and gas drilling, drawing praise from US President Donald Trump. Powell also indicated the government may put struggling water companies like Thames Water into special measures.
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