Written questions by Maskell.

Whether he has plans to review contracts with Palentir: and if he will publish the the value of the contracts with them.

Awaiting answer.

What the cost to the public purse is of the (a) appointment, (b) dismissal, (c) inquiries and (d) reviews associated with the appointment of Peter Mandelson.

Awaiting answer.

How many officials are working on the humble Address concerning Peter Mandelson.

Awaiting answer.

What steps he plans to take to help support people who are digitally excluded to work, in the context of the implementation of the proposed digital ID card.

The digital ID scheme will be underpinned by the principle that no one should be left behind. Making this system work for everyone will be a top priority, including those who do not have smartphones, are elderly, or are less digitally confident, so everyone will benefit from simpler, safer access to services.To support those who are digitally excluded, including those from work, the Government will deliver an ambitious digital inclusion programme across the country to ensure they are able to access the new digital ID scheme, and use public services with ease.

Whether children and young people will be required to hold an ID card if they work.

On 26 September 2025, the Prime Minister announced plans for free digital ID to be available to all UK citizens and legal residents. This is not an ID card.The scope of the digital ID scheme is still in development and we are inviting the public to have their say in the upcoming consultation as we develop an inclusive, secure, and useful system.Employers already conduct right to work checks using proof of ID. The new credential will enable these to be fully digitised by the end of this Parliament.

What steps he plans to take to help prevent data breaches associated with the proposed digital ID cards.

The National Cyber Security Centre is advising the Government on how the new credential is built to the highest standard of security. This would operate a three lines of defence process - this helps ensure data is protected, fraud is deterred and detected, and threats are monitored and responded to. Ensuring that security arrangements for the proposed digital ID scheme keeps pace with the changing threat landscape will be central to its development.

How many meetings data companies have had with the Government to discuss ID cards; what the dates of those meetings were; and which companies attended those meetings.

Information about Ministerial meetings, with data companies and others, is routinely published on GOV.UK in a quarterly transparency return. The latest Cabinet Office return can be found here.

If he will make it his policy not to introduce ID cards.

On 26 September 2025, the Prime Minister announced plans for free digital ID to be available to all UK citizens and legal residents. This is not an ID card.

What steps he plans to take to help support people with poor digital connections to use a digital ID card.

The digital ID scheme will be underpinned with the principle that no one should be left behind. We recognise that not everyone has the same level of digital access or confidence, and that’s why the scheme will be accompanied by a major government digital inclusion drive.