Andy Burnham cancels UK digital ID programme upon taking office

Andy Burnham scrapped the UK's digital ID programme on his first day as Prime Minister, Monday 21 July. The scheme had been a major project under former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, but it was widely criticised by the public. Burnham called the decision a "reset of priorities." His team said the money saved will go towards helping people with the cost of living instead. The Office for Budget Responsibility had estimated the programme would cost around £1.8 billion over three financial years, from 2026/27 to 2028/29. Burnham's spokesperson confirmed that resources previously set aside for digital ID work will now be redirected to support households struggling with everyday expenses.