§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security how many people are employed by his Department specifically to investigate fraudulent claims.
§ Miss WiddecombeThe investigation of social security fraud is a matter for Mr. Michael Bichard, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency. He will write to the hon. Member and a copy will be placed in the Library.
Letter from Michael Bichard to Mr. Gordon McMaster, dated 18 January 1993.
As Chief Executive of the Benefits Agency, it is my responsibility to answer questions about relevant operational matters. I am therefore replying to the points raised in your recent Parliamentary Question to the Secretary of State for Social Security asking how many people are employed by his Department specifically to investigate fraudulent claims.The complement for 1992–93 for staff specifically to investigate fraudulent claims is 2,853, however all staff are expected to identify fraudulent claims and may be involved in an investigation.I hope you find this reply helpful. A copy will appear in the Official Report. A copy will also be placed in the Library.