Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 26
26
Rejected
DWP to explore providing more feedback to public fraud reporters within legal confines.
Conclusion
We also asked the Department how it communicates with members of the public who raise concerns about potential cases of fraud, in particular what it tells them about how the cases have been resolved. The Department acknowledged the importance of ensuring that people feel raising a concern is worthwhile, and agreed to consider what more it might be able to do.51 It subsequently wrote to tell us that, where a fraud referral was received, it confirms receipt and explains that no details on the outcome of the case can be provided. It said that, generally, it cannot provide updates as there is no lawful basis to disclose this information to a third party. The Department 43 DWP report (on accounts), para 28 44 DWP report (overpayments), para 17 45 Committee of Public Accounts, DWP Customer Service and Accounts 2023–24, Sixth Report of Session 2024–25, HC 354, 31 January 2025, para 5 46 Q 41 47 Q 40 48 Qq 14, 40 49 Q 14 50 Q 40 51 Qq 44-46 14 noted, however, that it was sympathetic to the points we had raised, and committed to explore what was possible within the confines of the legislation and to update us when it had done so.52 Carer’s Allowance
Government Response Summary
The government disagrees with the Committee’s recommendation as there is generally no lawful basis to disclose investigation progress or results to third parties due to the Data Protection Act 2018 and the General Data Protection Regulation, however the department continues to review and publicise its counter fraud activities.
Government Response
Rejected
HM Government
Rejected
The government disagrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Any individual can report suspected benefit fraud to the department by completing a Fraud Referral Form or contacting the National Benefit Fraud Hotline. The department takes allegations seriously and will take appropriate action following referral. Upon receiving a fraud referral, the department issues an acknowledgment confirming receipt and advising that no details about the outcome can be shared. This is because there is generally no lawful basis to disclose investigation progress or results to third parties. The Data Protection Act 2018 and the General Data Protection Regulation place strict duties on the department as a data controller, and it must ensure that personal information is protected. Providing updates could also risk prejudicing any ongoing investigation. However, the department recognises the concerns raised in the hearing and understand that members of the public want greater visibility of the work undertaken by its counter fraud teams. The department continues to review and where appropriate, publicise its counter fraud activities. Increasing the visibility of the department’s work will help show the impact of fraud referrals and reinforce the role the public plays in protecting the integrity of the benefit system. Publicising successful outcomes will also act as a deterrent to individuals who may otherwise consider claiming benefits they are not entitled to.