The MP for Stoke-on-Trent South recently met with Josh Simons MP, Parliamentary Secretary for the Cabinet Office, to discuss Digital ID.  

Dr Allison Gardner, MP for Stoke-on-Trent South, has now explained some of the benefits and concerns discussed during the meeting. 

The Labour MP described some of the potential benefits of a secure Digital ID, such as helping citizens access government services more easily, protecting individuals from scams and digital identity theft, and improving the efficiency of data security and verification. 

Dr Gardner also explained the potential savings from digital transformation, which she claimed could be worth billions of pounds, that could then be redirected to frontline public services. 

However, Dr Gardner also raised concerns about whether such a system should ever become mandatory. 

The MP explained that she believes that trust, transparency, and choice must be at the heart of any approach to digital identity. 

She said, citizens need to be in control of how their data is used and have the freedom to decide whether and how they participate. 

Dr Gardner said: "Digital ID could offer real benefits in keeping people's data safe, making services more accessible, and reducing fraud.

"But for it to work, people must have confidence that their information is secure, that they retain control, and that there will always be genuine choice. Building that trust is essential." 

The MP also recognised that many people already use forms of digital identity through banking, healthcare, or online services, and that a single, secure government-backed option could simplify and streamline those interactions. 

Dr Gardner added that she would continue to ensure the voices and views of her constituents are represented in ongoing discussions about the future of Digital ID and digital transformation across government.