The Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Bill, recently debated in the House of Lords, seeks to enhance the government's ability to root out benefit fraud and error. It proposes that the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) be granted extensive powers, including the ability to surveil bank accounts and enter homes without prior suspicion. Experts caution that while reducing fraud is vital, the methods outlined may infringe on personal freedoms and rights, potentially leading to a regime of digital surveillance without proper oversight or justification.
The Bill aims to reduce government losses to benefit fraud and error, giving unprecedented powers to DWP for covertly checking claimant bank accounts.
Expert organisations warn that the proposed powers are disproportionate and represent human rights breaches, highlighting the need for caution even with important goals.
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