Question to the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have commissioned any research into or evaluation of the potential risks and benefits of digital identity systems, including with regard to impacts on privacy, inclusion, and interoperability.

The Office for Digital Identities and Attributes (OfDIA), part of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, enables the use of secure digital verification services for those who want to use them. In May 2024, OfDIA commissioned research on the UK digital identity market, including a consumer survey on the benefits and barriers to digital identity use. The findings are published on GOV.UK alongside a report on the inclusivity of the certified digital identity market. OfDIA will continue to publish these reports annually.

For the Data (Use and Access) Act 2025, OfDIA conducted a De Minimis assessment of the economic costs and benefits of the digital verification services provisions. This is available on GOV.UK and a post-implementation review will be published in due course.