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Welfare Reform Bill

I thank my noble friend for that helpful intervention. On the issue of administrative penalties, an individual would have 28 days to change their mind and withdraw acceptance of an administrative penalty if, on reflection, they thought it was inappropriate. The noble Lord, Lord Skelmersdale, asked whether fraud arises only when payments have been made. The answer is that there generally needs to be an overpayment. The only instance where we prosecute without an overpayment is in relation to identity fraud. I hope that I have been able to convince the Committee why these provisions are appropriate. I also acknowledge that if evidence is provided to us that the system is not working, we will be very happy to look at it. Clause 21 agreed. Schedule 4 agreed.