Labour Pledges to Review Fraud Laws
Labour's Shadow Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has promised to review the current legal framework surrounding fraud against the taxpayer. At present, there is no specific offence for defrauding the public purse, except in cases of welfare and tax. Reeves highlighted the £7.2 billion lost to fraud in Covid support schemes as a motivating factor for the proposed changes.
Greater Sentencing for Fraud in Other Countries
Reeves pointed out that countries such as the US, Canada, and Australia have more stringent sentencing for fraud against the state. She emphasized her background as an economist at the Bank of England and her understanding of the value of taxpayers' money.
Introducing Tougher Sentencing
A future Labour government, according to Reeves, would consider implementing tougher sentencing for those who defraud the taxpayer. She stated that Labour would examine the approaches taken by other countries in holding criminals accountable for their actions. The aim is to ensure that taxpayers' money is respected and that those who misuse it are held responsible.
Protecting Taxpayers' Money
Reeves concluded by affirming that a future Labour government would prioritize protecting taxpayers' money. She proposed the appointment of a Covid Corruption Commissioner with the authority to pursue and recover any funds that have been misappropriated. The funds, she argued, belong to essential public services such as schools, hospitals, and the police.
Overall, Labour's proposed legal overhaul aims to address the issue of fraud against the taxpayer and ensure that those who commit such crimes face appropriate consequences.
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