Thank you to all those who have contacted me about the proposed Fraud, Error and Debt Bill.

I believe it is important that any proposals to use data to identify fraud and error are implemented with the proper safeguards in place.

The level of fraud in the welfare system is absolutely unacceptable, with almost £10 billion lost last year. We do not tolerate tax evasion and will not tolerate those who defraud the social security system.

Increased use of data will be essential on clamping down on fraud, but we need to make sure that any powers used to collect these are legal, proportionate, and targeted.

I was therefore glad to see the Work and Pensions Secretary explain that the eligibility verification measure in the new Bill will not give the DWP access to any bank accounts, nor information on how claimants spend their money. Instead, the proposed new power helps verify benefit eligibility, using only very limited information from banks and financial institutions.

I should stress that safeguarding vulnerable claimants is always a priority. The Bill will have a clearly defined scope and clear limitations for all the powers that the Government is introducing.

I understand the Bill will also include safeguarding measures, reporting mechanisms and independent oversight. It is important that claimants can see that any new powers are being used fairly and effectively.

I am also aware that the Government also intends to consult on a Code of Practice during the passage of the Bill. I believe this is an important additional step, which will help provide further assurance on the safe use of these powers.

Thank you once again to all those who have contacted me about this serious issue.