Powys Council addressed concerns raised by Councillor Danny Bebb regarding the proposed BritCard digital ID system, assuring that they would engage with stakeholders, assess potential impacts, and advocate for safeguards to protect residents' privacy, autonomy, and equitable access to services. The council acknowledged public concerns about digital inclusion, data privacy, and potential future uses of digital ID systems, particularly for rural and cross-border communities. While the council does not yet have sufficient information to make a definitive statement, they committed to monitoring the situation closely and providing updates as more details become available, including a public consultation expected later in 2025.

BritCard Digital ID System

Councillor Danny Bebb raised questions regarding Powys Council's understanding and engagement with the proposed BritCard digital ID system, its potential links to banking services, and the safeguards in place to protect residents' privacy and data security. He also inquired about the potential risks of BritCard being expanded to include carbon credit tracking or restrictions on purchases and travel, and how the council would ensure that any future integration of BritCard with financial or environmental systems does not lead to exclusion, surveillance, or loss of personal autonomy for residents. Finally, he asked what steps would be taken to consult the public in Powys about the implications of digital ID systems like BritCard, especially in rural and cross-border communities.

The Head of Digital responded by acknowledging the announcement of the BritCard digital ID system by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on 25 September 2025, as part of the government's strategy to tackle illegal migration and streamline identity verification for work and residency rights in the UK.

The Head of Digital stated that:

At this stage, Powys County Council does not have sufficient information about the proposed BritCard digital ID system to make a definitive statement on its implications or potential integration with council services.

The Head of Digital assured that the council is aware of public concerns regarding digital inclusion, data privacy, and the potential future uses of digital ID systems, and that they are committed to ensuring that any developments in this area are carefully considered, particularly in relation to the needs of rural and cross-border communities. The Head of Digital also noted that a public consultation is expected to launch later in 2025 to gather feedback.

The Head of Digital stated that as more details about BritCard become available, the Council will engage with relevant stakeholders, assess the potential impacts on residents, and advocate for safeguards that protect privacy, autonomy, and equitable access to services.