UK Cabinet Office Assumes Digital ID Policy from DSIT

Published Date : 10/24/2025 

The UK's Cabinet Office has assumed responsibility for the government's mandatory digital identity scheme, previously managed by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). This shift aims to enhance collaboration and strategic oversight of the digital ID system. 

The UK’s Cabinet Office is now responsible for the government’s mandatory digital identity scheme, taking over from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). This change, effective immediately, was announced jointly by both departments. The Cabinet Office will handle policy, legislation, and strategic oversight of the digital ID system, which was announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer a month ago. DSIT will continue to manage the system’s technical design, development, and delivery.

Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall explained that the shift is essential because the digital ID is a top priority for the Prime Minister, requiring the involvement of all government departments. Darren Jones, the chief secretary of the Prime Minister and chancellor of the Duchy of York, will lead the Cabinet Office’s efforts. Jones will coordinate policy across the government and work on new legislation to support the digital ID scheme, in collaboration with DSIT.

Kendall emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “It is only by working collaboratively that the government will be able to deliver this ground-breaking initiative.” The announcement highlights the goal of improving public services but does not specify who will be responsible for restoring public support for the digital ID, which faced significant backlash when Starmer declared it mandatory.

Kendall took over the role at DSIT from Peter Kyle just weeks ago, during a time when the age assurance requirements in the Online Safety Act were the primary point of contention. DSIT was established in 2023 when then-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government combined the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport with areas of responsibility from the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, dropping “Digital” from its name.

The Office of Digital Identity and Attributes (OFDIA) was established in 2022 as an interim body to oversee the Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework (DIATF). It was under development in early 2023 and graduated to permanent status a year ago. This transition underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing digital identity infrastructure and improving public services through technological innovation. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is the main reason for the shift in responsibility for the digital ID scheme from DSIT to the Cabinet Office?

A: The main reason for the shift is that the digital ID scheme is a top priority for the Prime Minister, requiring the involvement and coordination of all government departments to ensure its successful implementation.

Q: Who will be responsible for the technical design and development of the digital ID system?

A: The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) will continue to handle the technical design, development, and delivery of the digital ID system.

Q: What role will Darren Jones play in the new digital ID scheme?

A: Darren Jones, the chief secretary of the Prime Minister and chancellor of the Duchy of York, will coordinate policy across the government and lead new legislation to support the digital ID scheme, working closely with DSIT.

Q: What is the Office of Digital Identity and Attributes (OFDIA) and when was it established?

A: The Office of Digital Identity and Attributes (OFDIA) was established in 2022 as an interim body to oversee the Digital Identity and Attributes Trust Framework (DIATF). It graduated to permanent status a year ago.

Q: How does the government plan to restore public support for the mandatory digital ID scheme?

A: The announcement does not specify who will be responsible for restoring public support, but the Cabinet Office’s involvement in policy and strategic oversight suggests a focus on improving public engagement and communication. 

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