LONDON, Jan. 15 -- UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Wednesday defended his decision to scrap plans to make a digital ID mandatory for employment in Britain, following intense public and political backlash. The proposed system, introduced by the Labour government in September, aimed to curb illegal migration by requiring a free digital ID for UK nationals and residents. However, officials confirmed that it would no longer be compulsory for workers.

Read More: UK unveils digital ID plan to curb illegal migration

"I'm determined to make it harder for people to work illegally in this country, and that is why there will be checks," Starmer told parliament. "They will be digital, and they will be mandatory," he added, clarifying that verific...