John Redwood

|

John Redwood asking ministers to simplify the benefit system for his constituents

Mr. John Redwood (Wokingham):

Is the Minister aware that one of the main reasons for so many errorsand so much fraud is the incredible complexity ofthe system? Would it not be helpful if the Minister tried to simplify it sothat my constituents who really needed the support knew they could get itand knew how to get it, but those who were trying to work the system foundit more difficult because it was much more transparent? Would he not then beable to set a proper target of getting rid of fraud almost completely,instead of living with the unacceptable, high levels that he is forecastingwell into the future?

Malcolm Wicks:What we are also forecasting is a determination to reducefraud. I am sure that the right hon. Gentleman welcomes the fact that thisGovernment-I cannot speak for other Governments-are succeeding in reducingfraud. All of us want more simplicity. There is a balance to be struck: howto simplify the system when meeting the specific needs of specific membersof the community. These are difficult issues, but only last week my righthon. Friend the Secretary of State announced pilots/pathfinders on housingbenefit, which will produce much greater simplicity in that complex area ofsocial security policy.