'No decision' on digital ID cards for Guernsey

If approved, the UK's digital IDs will take the form of an app-based system stored on phones

There has been "no decision" on whether to introduce digital ID cards in Guernsey, the chief minister says.

Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez's comments follow plans announced by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to roll out such a system in the UK, which would be mandatory in order to work there.

Sir Keir said the new digital ID scheme would make it tougher to work in the UK illegally and offer "countless benefits" to citizens, while his senior minister Darren Jones said it could be "the bedrock of the modern state".

However, opposition parties argued the proposals would not stop people crossing the English Channel in small boats, and millions of people have signed a petition against the proposal.

De Sausmarez, president of the Policy and Resources Committee, said she had taken note of the UK announcement.

"[We] will seek clarity on any implications for islanders," she said.

The plans are part of the Labour government's drive to tackle illegal migration.

If approved, the digital IDs will take the form of an app-based system, stored on smartphones in a similar way to the NHS App or digital bank cards.

Information on the holders' residency status, name, date of birth, nationality and a photo will be included.

Sir Keir has been under pressure to tackle the issue, with more than 50,000 migrants arriving in the UK on small boats since Labour came into power in July 2024.

Sir Tony Blair attempted to bring in mandatory UK ID cards when he was prime minister, but that was scrapped in 2010.

A consultation on the idea is expected later this year, with legislation being brought to the UK parliament in early 2026.