§ Mr. FieldTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what action he is taking in respect of those area directorates where fraud in income support and jobseeker's allowance increased in the last area benefit review; and if he will make a statement. [114003]
§ Mr. Rooker[holding answer 10 March 2000]: The Benefits Agency's Area Directorates have plans in place which help them to direct their resources effectively to areas of greatest risk. The plans are regularly reviewed to see how effective areas are in paying benefits accurately and securely and appropriate adjustments are made. We are paying close attention to those areas where levels of fraud and error have risen.