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Welfare fraud update

13 May 2024

Proposing MP
Mel Stride Con
Central Devon
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Department for Work and Pensions
View on Parliament.uk -->

At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement addresses the issue of welfare fraud and its impact on public trust in the UK's welfare system.

Action Requested

The Government is publishing a new paper titled 'Fighting Fraud in the Welfare System: Going Further' to outline progress made in tackling fraud and error, and set out additional measures for protecting taxpayers' money. The government has already exceeded its savings target for 2023/24 by saving over £1.3 billion through counter fraud activities.

Key Facts

  • DWP stopped an estimated £18 billion of fraudulent claims in 2022-23.
  • Over £8 billion a year has been overpaid due to welfare fraud and error since the pandemic.
  • The Government will publish 'Fighting Fraud in the Welfare System: Going Further' paper setting out progress and future actions.
  • Savings target for 2023/24 exceeded by saving over £1.3 billion through counter fraud activities.
  • Government invested £900m into its Fraud Plan to combat welfare fraud.
  • Fraud Plan aims to save taxpayers £9 billion by 2027/28.
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