§ Mr. Meacherasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what are the arrangements for liaison between local offices of his Department and the police in relation to claimants suspected of fraud; and if he will initiate discussions to ensure that no unnecessary material is retained by his Department.
§ Mr. NewtonThe majority of suspected benefit fraud cases are investigated by local office staff without police assistance. There will be occasions, however, depending on the nature of the fraud, when it will be necessary for an investigating officer to seek the help of the police. There is no regular system for such liaison and no unnecessary material is obtained.