As the petition opposing Starmer's digital ID plans passes 2.5 million signatures, Plymouth's three MPs have given their views on the proposal.
If you aren't sure where your MP stands, here's everything you need to know and how you can have your say.
Both Labour MPs came out quickly to back Sir Kier Starmer's plans - ignoring thousands of their constituents who have signed the petition against digital ID.
Plymouth Moor View's Fred Thomas has backed the plans. In a post on X on Thursday, Mr Thomas called digital ID "a hugely important step".
I’ve come to understand that Digital ID is a hugely important step:
— Fred Thomas MP (@FredThomasUK) September 25, 2025
Makes UK job market less porous, and much less attractive to desperate folks considering undertaking the dangerous small boat crossing.
Saves public money on expensive paper trail bureaucracy. https://t.co/lkjztHSoT1
Mr Thomas' post has amassed thousands of angry replies, and at the time of writing, 4,800 of Mr Thomas's constituents had signed the petition opposing digital ID.
Luke Pollard also expressed his support for the proposals, despite 4,700 constituents opposing digital ID in his constituency of Plymouth Sutton and Devonport.
The choice is clear: a party of patriotic national renewal with Labour or division and decline with the right wing parties of Reform and the Tories. https://t.co/isxAZCw1kr
— Luke Pollard MP (@LukePollard) September 26, 2025
In South West Devon, 4,300 people have signed the petition, but unlike Fred Thomas and Luke Pollard, Conservative MP Rebecca Smith has come out firmly against the plans.
As Plymouth's sole voice in Parliament against the plans, Miss Smith has called Starmer's plans for a mandatory digital ID "a threat to our individual liberties" and a distraction from the real issues facing constituents in South West Devon.
Miss Smith's statement continued:
"Rather than empowering citizens, this scheme would give the government greater control over everyday life, at a cost of billions, while doing little to address the illegal immigration it claims it will solve.
"In 2023, the Conservative government rightly listened to the public and rejected mandatory digital ID cards.
"I remain firmly opposed to these proposals and will continue to stand up for your rights and ensure your voice is heard."
If you don't agree with your MP's stance, you can tell them why by writing to them at the House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA. You can check who your MP is and how to write to them using this simple tool.
But if you want a quicker response, it's best to email or call them using the details below:
- Fred Thomas MP (Labour): fred.thomas.mp@parliament.uk or 01752 373 404
- Luke Pollard MP (Labour): luke.pollard.mp@parliament.uk or 01752 717 255
- Rebecca Smith MP (Conservative): rebecca.smith.mp@parliament.uk or 01752 335666
Many MPs also hold regular "surgeries" in their constituencies, where you can meet them face-to-face to discuss your concerns.
Where do you stand on the issue? Take Plymouth Plus's poll now.
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