Digital ID: Havering Councillors Divided as Residents Demand Answers

The Havering Daily recently contacted all 55 councillors in Havering to gather their views on the Government’s proposed Digital ID scheme. Despite the issue’s potential impact on every UK citizen, only a small number responded, leaving residents questioning whether silence signals support, opposition, or avoidance.

The Government’s proposed Digital ID system aims to simplify how people prove their identity for services such as employment, housing, and healthcare — replacing paper records with a single secure digital profile. Supporters say it will reduce fraud and speed up access to public services, while critics warn it could erode privacy and exclude those without digital access.

Across Havering, responses revealed sharp differences between political groups, and within them.

The Havering Labour Group, led by Cllr Keith Darvill, expressed cautious support. In a group statement, rather than individual responses like asked, they welcomed the scheme’s potential to improve access to services but called for “protections and safeguards” for residents without smartphones and assurances that councils would not face unfunded costs.

Several Conservative and Havering Residents Association (HRA) councillors voiced strong opposition.
Cllr Judith Holt (Conservative) called the proposal “an infringement of civil liberties,” warning that digital-only systems risk excluding elderly and vulnerable residents.
Cllr David Taylor (Conservative) described the scheme as “redundant and expensive,” arguing:

“We already have digital systems through the NHS, Government Gateway, and driving licences. This would change little and cost a lot.”

Cllr Nisha Patel (Conservative) outlined both benefits and risks, highlighting potential improvements in security and service access but cautioning about privacy, hacking, and over-reliance on technology.

From the HRA, Cllr Graham Williamson, Cabinet Lead for Development and Regeneration, said he saw “minimal benefits versus a slippery slope to greater government control.” HRA Leader Cllr Ray Morgon agreed, calling the plan “not cost-effective.”
Cllr Keith Prince (Reform UK) went further, describing it as “an extension of Big Brother.”

Cllr John Tyler said he remained undecided but sceptical, noting that “a voluntary system is unlikely to have much impact” and could become an expensive political gesture.

Yet perhaps the most striking finding wasn’t what was said — but what wasn’t.
The vast majority of Havering councillors did not respond to The Havering Daily’s request, despite being given enough to provide a short, on-the-record view.

In a borough where councillors have previously spoken out on national issues such as ULEZ, many residents may question whether staying silent on Digital ID shows a lack of engagement or respect for the people they represent. When policies touch on data privacy, civil liberties, and digital access, voters expect transparency.

Councillors may disagree — but they should not disappear. If your councillors name is not in this article, it may be worth asking them directly how they feel about Digital ID.

As the Government’s consultation on Digital ID continues, The Havering Daily will ensure residents remain informed — even when their elected representatives choose not to engage.

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