Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, what recent assessment she has made of the adequacy of the (a) accessibility and (b) convenience of (i) setting up and (ii) using the Government Gateway.

The Government Gateway is continuously monitored for availability and performance. It complies with Government Digital Service standards, including accessibility standards. An accessibility assessment in June 2023 found it fully compliant with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines version 2.1 AA.

The service is available 24/7, making it highly accessible. Setting up an account requires only an email address, but identity verification is needed for accessing certain services. Identity verification can be done using a passport, driving license, or other knowledge-based evidence.

The process aims to balance ease of use with the need to protect personal information and prevent fraud.

Gov.UK One Login (including face-to-face verification) will gradually replace Government Gateway starting Winter 2025.

HMRC provides alternative channels for users who cannot access services digitally, such as telephone and written communication.