Written question asked by Martin Salter (Labour) on Wednesday, 9 February 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 14 February 2000. It was answered by David Lock (Labour) on Monday, 14 February 2000 on behalf of the Lord Chancellor's Department.

Lord Chancellors Dept

Question: To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department, what measures he plans to take to ensure the Legal Aid Board prevents double payments and payments to fraudulent and fictional clients.

Answer: Mr. Salter: To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what measures he plans to take to ensure the Legal Aid Board prevents double payments and payments to fraudulent and fictional clients. [110017] Mr. Lock: The Board has in place controls to reduce the risk of duplicate or fraudulent payments being made. The Chief Executive's statement on internal financial control, which is informed by the ongoing work of the Board's internal and external auditors and executive managers, has provided assurance to the Government and Parliament that the procedures being operated give an adequate level of control over the Board's financial systems. The Government will remain vigilant to ensure that every reasonable step is taken to prevent double payments and payments to fraudulent and fictional clients.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 344 c454W; 110017
Session: 1999-00
Subjects: Fraud Legal aid scheme Legal Aid Board Maladministration Overpayments Payments