§ Mr. Charles Irvingasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied that the relaxation of departmental procedures to cope with the current pressures is not likely to lead to an increase in the incidence of fraudulent claims.
§ Mr. OrmeWe aim to strike the optimum balance between economy in manpower and an effective response to social security fraud. If the hon. Member has any constructive suggestions to make I shall be glad to consider them. I made it clear in my public statement of 21st September that there is no question of reducing the number of fraud specialists, and indeed, that their numbers will be increased if we are satisfied that more are needed.