Jamie Stone, MP for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross, has raised fresh concerns over the UK Government’s plans to introduce a mandatory digital ID system, warning that the policy risks deepening digital exclusion across the Far North.
A parliamentary petition launched on 2 October calling for a commitment not to introduce digital ID cards has gathered almost three million signatures, with more than 4,000 coming from Mr Stone’s own constituency.
The strength of the response pushed the issue into a Westminster debate yesterday, where criticism of the proposal was described as significant and sustained.
Mr Stone told Parliament that many people across the Highlands are anxious about the impact of a compulsory digital ID, particularly those already disadvantaged by geography, age, income or limited digital access.
“As a Liberal, I cannot support a mandatory digital ID, it should be an individual’s right to choose,” he said.
“This plan is inherently illiberal and un-British.”
He highlighted that his constituency covers one of the largest and most rural regions in the UK, where patchy internet coverage and limited connectivity remain a daily reality.
“I represent a vast and rural constituency,” he said.
“Those who are elderly, on low incomes and those living without internet access, have a greater risk of becoming digitally excluded.”
“I cannot condone isolating them further.”
The petition that triggered the debate cites fears about mass surveillance, concerns over digital control, and the erosion of personal freedoms, all of which have struck a chord with many Highland residents who value privacy and independence.
Mr Stone urged the Government to recognise the scale of public concern and to rethink its approach before vulnerable groups are pushed further to the margins.
“Ministers need to listen to sit up and listen,” he said.
“The public have made their voices clear.”
“We need to ensure the most vulnerable are not left behind.”
The debate is expected to continue in the coming weeks as pressure mounts for the UK Government to clarify whether digital IDs will be mandatory, optional or withdrawn entirely.
