HC Deb 12 December 1983 vol 50 cc329-30W
Mr. Cowans

asked the Secretary of State for Employment how long the regional investigation teams will be in existence; what is the total cost of the operation and the estimate of how much money might be saved by these investigations; and how this estimate is calculated.

Mr. Alan Clark

The regional benefit investigation teams have been set up following a successful experiment in three regions which started in 1982. They are established on a permanent basis, but their effectiveness will be kept under constant review. The total cost of the teams in a full year is estimated at £1.6 million. On the basis of experience in the pilot regions, the net savings are estimated at £8 million in a full year. This estimate is based on an assumption as to the length of time that claimants would have continued claiming benefit fraudulently.

Mr. Cowans

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what are the terms of reference of the regional investigation teams set up by his Department; and whether such terms of reference are available to the general public.

Mr. Alan Clark

There are no specific terms of reference for the teams. Their purpose, under current departmental instructions, is to investigate claims to benefit which may be fraudulent.

Mr. Cowans

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what is the composition of the regional investigation teams; what is the overall number per team; and whether insurance officers or benefit inspectors are included.

Mr. Alan Clark

The regional benefit investigation teams are composed of 10 or 11 special benefit investigators. Insurance officers are quite independent and are not included.

Mr. Cowans

asked the Secretary of State for Employment what are the powers given to the staff employed on the regional investigation teams; how many overall are employed, or to be employed, on these teams; and whether they are employed permanently on these teams or just for a trial period.

Mr. Alan Clark

Staff employed in the regional benefit investigation teams have the same powers as all other special investigators appointed under the Social Security Act 1975 as amended. There are a total of 93 staff permanently engaged on this work.