BENEFIT fraud could potentially lead to being banned from driving under new Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) plans.
Anyone found to be committing fraud could be stripped of their driving licence for up to two years if they refuse to pay back debts of more than £1000, the DWP has said.
The DWP previously revealed that up to £35 billion in benefits had been incorrectly paid to those not entitled to the money.
The latest move, set to come into force under the New Public Authorities (Fraud, Error & Recovery) Bill, will also allow the Government to directly recover money from the bank accounts of those in debt.
Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall (below) said: “We are turning off the tap to criminals who cheat the system and steal law-abiding taxpayers’ money.
“This means greater consequences for fraudsters who cheat and evade the system, including as a last resort in the most serious cases removing their driving licence.
“Backed up by new and important safeguards including reporting mechanisms and independent oversight to ensure the powers are used proportionately and safely.”
A spokesperson for the DWP said: “Staff will be trained to the highest standards on the appropriate use of any new powers, and we will introduce new oversight and reporting mechanisms, to monitor these new powers.
“This legislation delivers on the Government’s manifesto commitment to safeguard taxpayers’ money and demonstrates the Government’s commitment to not tolerate fraud, error or waste anywhere in public services, including the social security system.”
In a speech in November, the Prime Minister promised a “zero tolerance” approach on anyone committing benefit fraud.
