Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 19
19
Accepted
Department lacks estimates of overpayment rates for energy support schemes and evaluations.
Conclusion
We asked the Department whether it had an estimate of the rate of overpayment within the schemes. Both the Former Permanent Secretary and the Department told us that they did not have an overpayment figure, but that overall, the Department was aiming to pay accurately.43 We also questioned the Department on its plans to monitor 38 Qq 153, 175 39 Q 172; C&AG’s Report, para 2.9 40 Qq 172–175; C&AG’s Report, paras 2.9, 3.2 41 Q 176 ; C&AG’s Report, para 3.5 42 Qq 153, 175–176 43 Q 177 16 Energy bills support benefits, impacts and the effectiveness of the schemes, including rates of fraud and error. The Department told us that it had an evaluation plan in place, but that full evaluation of the effectiveness of the schemes would only be possible when the schemes have concluded.44 44 Qq 145–146 Energy bills support 17 2 Future risks Risks of reducing support for businesses
Government Response Summary
The government agrees with the committee's observation, affirming its serious approach to fraud and error risks in the schemes. It commits to continuing proactive work to detect and reduce fraud and error, and will work with external scrutiny providers to provide the committee with the latest estimated rates.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
3.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Winter 2023-24 3.2 The department always takes the risk of fraud and error very seriously. This has been a key consideration in the development and delivery of the schemes, which was done with the support of the Public Sector Fraud Authority from the outset. The department continues proactive work to detect and reduce instances of error and fraud associated with Energy Affordability Schemes and will work with external scrutiny providers to provide the Committee with the latest estimated rates.