GB News star Bev Turner is concerned about the ever-growing influence the Government has on our lives ahead of a planned digital ID rollout.
The Government announced yesterday a planned law change that will allow people to use smartphones to prove their age when buying alcohol at pubs, bars and shops.
An update to the Licensing Act 2003 will see people able to present secure digital identities as proof of age when buying alcohol, if they prove to do so.
But Bev fears this is part of a creep from the Government towards an overbearing future as it “opens the door to tyranny”.
Bev Turner reacted to a video put up by the Department for Technology
GB NEWS / X
“The Government is saying it will be optional – it won’t be. It will be optional for the venue”, she said on GB News.
“So if the venue decides they want to make this mandatory, then it will be. That worries me so much because it’s taking away a freedom that you and I have enjoyed, probably for the whole of our lives.
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Countries around the world are embracing digital licences and ID cards GETTY“The freedom to leave the house, not always have to have your phone, battery, Wi-Fi.
“Steve Baker, former MP said yesterday it opens the door to all sorts of tyranny when the digital ID comes in.
“What I really despise about this is that they’ve gone for the young people first, because they assume that they will just roll over and take it.
“I feel really strongly about it because as soon as you’ve got that on your phone, your ID can be tracked, traced and your freedom and your liberty is no longer yours.”
Bev discussed the proposed changes on GB News
GB NEWS
From next year, landlords will be able to scan digital identities via a QR code or NFC technology to verify a customer’s age.
Technology minister Peter Kyle released a video yesterday explaining changes, and he said: This change benefits both consumers and businesses spurring the economic growth we need to put more money in the pockets of working people as part of our Plan for Change.
“By next Christmas, you won’t need to carry a wallet or risk losing important documents like your passport or driver’s license when heading out to celebrate.
“With a certified digital identity on your phone, you can raise a glass in your local pub without hassle – a merry step forward in making age verification safer, easier, and more convenient for everyone.”
Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UK Hospitality, said: “Digital ID can make life easier for both consumers and businesses, and we’re pleased to be supporting its introduction.
“There are fewer things more frustrating than realising you’ve forgotten your ID when heading to a pub, bar or restaurant, and hopefully these new measures will make that a thing of the past. I look forward to working with the government on its smooth implementation, which minimises additional costs for businesses.”
The British Beer and Pub Association (BPPA) also welcomed the technology rollout. Director of communications & external affairs at the BPPA James Hawkins, said: “This welcome change brings the Licensing Act in line with current technology and will make a visit to the pub easier for both customers and staff.
“This additional way of carrying ID could be more convenient and reduce the risk of customers losing key ID documents when enjoying a night out.”