HC Deb 17 November 1997 vol 301 cc79-80W
19. Mr. Gerrard

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans she has to tackle fraud in the social security system. [14648]

Mr. Denham

Rebuilding integrity in—and public support for—the social security system is a key element of reforming the welfare state. Tackling fraud is central to this.

We are determined to make real and permanent reductions in fraud. We will modernise the welfare system so that it is secure from the point of benefit design, through to the point of payment, unlike the previous Government who focused mainly on detection after the event.

20. Mr. Robathan

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans she has to reduce fraud in the information provided to the Child Support Agency. [14649]

Mr. Field

We are determined to stamp out fraud throughout the benefits system—that includes the CSA.

The Agency already has powers to gather and confirm the information necessary to make a child support assessment. But we are considering whether further powers are needed to ensure that maintenance liability is based on accurate information.

32. Helen Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what progress has been made in tackling fraud in the social security system. [14663]

Mr. Denham

We are determined to make real and permanent reductions in fraud. We will do this by modernising the welfare system and transforming the way in which it is delivered. Our aim is for an Active Modern Service where integrity is key, and where security is built in throughout, rather than focused mainly on detection after the event. A system which is secure from the point of benefit design, through to the point of payment.