§ Mr. BercowTo ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs what additional security measures are planned by her Department to deter and detect theft and fraud. [31786]
§ Mr. MorleyFor physical security the Department already has a wide range of measures in place which can be varied or adapted to meet specific needs or changed circumstances for any of our sites around the UK. Measures typically include access control (including guard services and pass wearing procedures), staff and visitor checks, staff awareness, intruder detection systems, good liaison with local police etc.
As to fraud, the Department has a fraud policy statement which is available to all staff. It has also issued guidance for managers on how to handle suspected instances of fraud. Staff are in no doubt that fraud is regarded very seriously, and that the Department will always prosecute perpetrators and also take disciplinary action against staff where these actions are considered appropriate. Professional investigation, legal and internal audit advice is always available in support, and the Department seeks to maintain an awareness of current practice and developments in the detection and prevention of fraud.