Burnham Abandons Digital ID Push | Tech News

Incoming PM Andy Burnham is ditching Labour’s controversial digital ID plan, calling it a costly fiasco that diverted resources from urgent issues like the cost of living. Originally backed by Starmer to modernize identity verification and crack down on illegal work, the scheme ballooned to nearly $2 billion and faced massive public backlash — including a petition with 3 million signatures. Burnham’s team says the saved funds will now fuel daily priorities, while Conservatives accuse him of claiming credit for a decision already in motion. Meanwhile, Burnham also plans to fast-track North Sea oil and gas drilling, defying Labour’s manifesto pledge — a pragmatic energy move amid mounting pressure. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/9bbe59cb2f3b8fe8