§ Mrs. Wiseasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether it is his general policy to prosecute first offenders in matters relating to social security claims.
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§ Mr. DeakinsIn general it is the policy of my Department to prosecute offenders wherever appropriate. Each case is considered on its merits. One of the many relevant factors is whether there is any indication of a previous fraud.
§ Mrs. Wiseasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what proportion of those prosecuted in relation to social security claims last year were first offenders.
§ Mr. DeakinsOur records of prosecutions do not distinguish between persons who were first offenders and others.