The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is actively enhancing its measures to combat fraud and error within the welfare benefits system, following a significant loss attributed to scams during the Covid-19 pandemic. As part of these efforts, a new Fraud, Error and Debt Bill is anticipated to be presented to Parliament early this year, according to DWP Minister Andrew Western.

These upcoming legislative changes are part of a broader strategy that includes the introduction of artificial intelligence tools aimed at identifying fraudulent activities and errors in issuing benefits. Mr Western emphasised that despite the increasing role of technology in monitoring, "the final decision on whether someone receives a welfare payment is always made by a human," highlighting a commitment to maintaining human oversight in the decision-making process.

However, concerns have been raised about the implications of using AI in this context. Debbie Abrahams, Chair of the Work and Pensions Committee and a Labour MP, drew attention to findings from a recent Freedom of Information request indicating potential biases in AI tools employed by the DWP. She noted that these tools may disproportionately affect individuals based on factors such as age, disability, marital status, and nationality. Inquiring about the governance standards guiding the procurement and utilisation of these technologies, she asked, "What assurances can the Minister give that the procurement and use of such tools will be covered by strict governance standards, including tests for fairness?"

In response to these issues, Mr Western acknowledged the challenges faced by the department, citing that fraud and error are costing the DWP nearly £10 billion annually. "It is right that we look to utilise all available tools to tackle it," he stated, while also recognising the importance of human judgement in safeguarding welfare payments. He reiterated, "That is the most robust safeguard that we can have in place - although of course it sits alongside a broader suite."

Adding to the discourse, Labour/Co-op MP Sally Jameson addressed the staggering £35 billion loss to fraud and error since the onset of the pandemic. She questioned the DWP's strategic plan for recovering these losses, to which Mr Western responded, "The Fraud, Error and Debt Bill is due to come to the House early in the new year. This Government are serious about tackling fraud; it is just a shame that we inherited the mess we did."

As these developments unfold, the DWP seeks to balance the integration of emerging technologies in its operations while ensuring fairness and accountability in its approach to managing benefits and combating fraudulent activities.

Source: Noah Wire Services