§ 16. Mr. David NicholsonTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what action he is taking to combat fraud. [7091]
§ Mr. JackThe Government attach a high priority to tackling all types of fraud and abuse. The measures we have introduced to combat social security fraud arc already saving the taxpayer over £1 billion a year, expected to reach £2.5 billion a year by 1998–99. Customs and Excise is strengthening its intelligence and investigation activities, including over 200 more staff over the next three years, while Inland Revenue attaches similar priority to tackling fraud. In addition, the Treasury has recently issued its annual letter on fraud within 301W Government Departments, so that managers throughout Government will be aware of fraud risks, and will be able to strengthen systems to counter those risks.