Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Proceeds of Crime 2022-02-10

2022-02-10

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Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Direct Answer
Caroline Ansell
▸ Context
The MP is questioning the recent assessment made regarding the effectiveness of the SFO in recovering proceeds of crime.
What recent assessment has been made of the effectiveness of the Serious Fraud Office in recovering the proceeds of crime?
Alex Chalk
The SFO has had a very positive year in delivering on its commitment to recover the proceeds of crime. So far in 2021-22, the SFO has obtained more than £44.5 million in new financial orders from the courts and successfully recovered more than £45 million by enforcing these and existing orders.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Caroline Ansell
▸ Context
The MP is seeking an update on the progress of the investigation into the London Capital & Finance scandal and what hope this can offer to her constituents.
What assessment can he make of the progress of the investigations into the London Capital & Finance scandal, and what hope can I offer my constituents?
Alex Chalk
The SFO continues to investigate the dealings of London Capital & Finance plc and associated companies. The size and complexity of these cases means significant time is required, but driving forward rapid investigation progression remains a priority for both the Attorney General and me. Over the last five years, thanks to the work of the SFO, £1.3 billion has been returned to taxpayers over and above the costs of running the SFO.
▸ Assessment & feedback
The specific hope that can be offered to constituents was not addressed directly
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Clive Efford Lab
Eltham and Chislehurst
▸ Context
The MP is concerned about the protection of individuals working at agencies tasked with investigating crimes from abusive litigation by those seeking to hide their ill-gotten gains.
What action can be taken to protect individuals who work for agencies like the Serious Fraud Office from such abusive litigation?
Alex Chalk
We will act robustly and promptly where criticisms are made of the Serious Fraud Office. For instance, my right hon. and learned Friend the Attorney General ensured that an investigation was set up in respect of the findings in the Unaoil case.
▸ Assessment & feedback
The specific action to protect individuals from abusive litigation was not detailed
Response accuracy