Launch of veteran card will be used to test UK government’s digital ID scheme

Ministers hope scheme for 1.8 million people will show how technology works and ease privacy and security concerns

Former military personnel will be used to test and refine the government's divisive digital ID scheme from Friday, when ministers make a smartphone-based veteran card available to 1.8 million people.

The proof of service, which in its current physical version gives access to charities, retail discounts and certain public services, will be the first of a series of official credentials the government wants to let people carry in a government app.