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The UK Government has introduced the Fraud, Error, and Debt Bill, which is projected to save £1.6 billion over the next five years through enhanced fraud prevention measures.
The proposed legislation will grant the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) greater authority to tackle fraud within the social security system. Under the new law, the DWP will have the power to conduct searches, seize assets related to suspected fraudulent activities, and recover debts from individuals who are able to repay but have failed to do so.
To ensure these new powers are not misused, a strict Code of Practice will be implemented to regulate their use.
Despite the bill’s intentions, it has sparked controversy among the British public, with some referring to it as the “snooper’s charter.” Comparisons are being made to previous legislation, such as the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, which allowed welfare officials to access data from users’ bank accounts. Concerns have been raised regarding data privacy and the potential impact on older and disabled individuals receiving social security benefits.
In response to these concerns, the DWP clarified its stance: “Staff will receive rigorous training on the responsible use of any new powers, and we will introduce oversight and reporting mechanisms to ensure transparency. The DWP will not have access to individuals’ bank accounts, nor will it share personal information with third parties.”
The department added, “This legislation fulfills the government’s commitment to safeguarding taxpayers’ money and highlights the ongoing effort to eliminate fraud, error, and waste within public services, including the social security system.”
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