Oral Answers to Questions

Andrew Bridgen Excerpts

Monday 28th March 2011 Commons Chamber

[Andrew Bridgen (North West Leicestershire) (Con)]

6. What steps he is taking to reduce the level of benefit fraud.

[The Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions (Chris Grayling)]

We are taking all necessary measures to try to clamp down on benefit fraud—we are using the latest technology—and we regard this as a key area for progress. The introduction of the universal credit, which will provide better flows of information around the Department, will make it easier to reduce fraud.

[Andrew Bridgen]

Can my right hon. Friend confirm that his Department is not only sharing data with other Departments but using the services of credit rating agencies to detect fraudulent claims? Such claims not only unfairly burden the taxpayer but unfairly tarnish those in genuine need of help.

[Chris Grayling]

I can absolutely give my hon. Friend that assurance. The Welfare Reform Bill improves the flow of information and data sharing within the public sector. I can also confirm that we are now working closely with credit reference agencies—he will understand if I do not give too many details, as I do not want to give the fraudsters advance notice of what is coming.