A new poll conducted by independent market researchers Yonder, on behalf of Digital ID advocates, the Tony Blair Institute (TBI), shows split opinion for Digital IDs. 

The poll of more than 2,000 UK residents, shows 43% of respondents support the technology, compared with 37% who oppose it. 

Twenty percent of respondents are still undecided on the scheme. The report from TBI points to public opinion changing frequently on the matter, with low understanding of the benefits and drawbacks suspected to be responsible for the flip flopping. 

The UK government is currently running an open consultation to gather public opinion on the proposed national digital ID system for British and Irish citizens, and foreign nationals with permission to be in the UK.

The supporting commentary from TBI suggested voters are swayed when they are reassured this will be “a secure, modern system that delivers better value for money, makes public services easier to use and has clear limits on usage”.

However concerns still remain around privacy, cybersecurity risks, digital exclusion and potential for misuse – all contributing to split public opinion. The report suggests that public approval lies in the government rebuilding trust to deliver the scheme competently.

In a 2024 poll, 11% strongly supported the scheme, 37% somewhat supported it, 28% were undecided, 14% somewhat opposed and 10% strongly opposed. 

Now, 14% strongly supported the scheme, 29% somewhat supported it, 20% were undecided, 16% somewhat opposed and 21% strongly opposed. 

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Interestingly, these findings suggest that the biggest change is the level of people strongly opposed to the scheme, with an 11% increase since 2024. 

The data showed consistency across demographics with support dropping regardless of age, gender or ethnicity. The sharpest change though, has been in young respondents, with support in this group dropping noticeably from 62% in 2024 to 40% in 2026. 

Whilst public opinion is inconclusive, what is clear is that views on the scheme are still relatively fluid – impacted by overall perception of government competence, and the perceived benefits and risks the scheme will deliver for UK citizens. 

The UK government consultation remains open for public comment.