DSS fraud checks stay
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by Mike Jewell • Social Security managers are not acting on a Benefits Agency plan to exclude DSS fraud investigators from multi-agency roadside checks.
Last month a leaked document from the DSS Benefits Agency in Leeds told DSS managers: "We do not have powers to compel drivers to answer questions. It is quite possible (if they continue) that an action for damages against the Benefits Agency might result" ( CM 1-7 Dec).
In November Lancashire Police reported that the DSS had pulled out of a multiagency check, describing the move as "very disappointing". But benefits fraud inspectors appeared at a Lanc ashire Police roadside check on Friday 2 December, netting over 30 drivers fraudulently drawing the dole.
The DSS will not comment on its policy of having fraud inspectors at the checks. It is being lobbied to stop DSS officers attending the checks by the Freight Transport Association, which believes roadside checks should concentrate on road safety.
The Lancashire Police check, which took place at Samlesbury, looked at more than 150 trucks: 67 had defects, ranging from faulty brakes to no excise licence discs-14 were given immediate prohibitions.