The introduction of Centralised Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) and a compulsory Digital ID poses a personal threat to all citizens in the UK. CBDC, as a programmable digital currency owned and operated by the Bank of England, possesses the potential to control what we spend our money on, tracking and tracing every single penny we spend. This increased surveillance not only invades our privacy, but also assesses us on our purchases, potentially opening a pathway to a Chinese-style social credit score system.

Coupled with a compulsory Digital ID, this could mean an absolute end to freedom in the UK. Our liberty to anonymise transactions, evade unwarranted scrutiny and maintain financial independence may vanish forever.

According to a report by the European Parliamentary Research Service (EPRS), the centralisation of digital currencies can lead to increased surveillance levels and reduced privacy. In addition, mandatory digital ID systems can also result in social inequality and discrimination (EPRS Report, 2019).

On top of that, a recent poll conducted by YouGov shows that 75% of UK adults are concerned about their financial privacy (YouGov Poll, 2021). The introduction of the CBDC and the compulsory Digital ID system will only exacerbate these fears.

The implementation of CBDC and mandatory digital ID is a serious infringement on our personal liberties, our privacy, and the fundamental values that define our society. Therefore, we implore policy makers to reject the plans to introduce a Centralised Bank Digital Currency and a compulsory digital ID. Stand with us as we fight for a future that respects our freedom, privacy, and financial autonomy. Please sign this petition.