Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Act 2025: Codes of Practice

Thursday 14th May 2026 Written Statements

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Andrew Western)]

I would like to advise the House that today the Government are publishing the response to the public consultation on the codes of practice associated with the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Act 2025. The response explains how the public’s views were considered and, where appropriate, reflected through changes to the codes. Alongside this response, the following codes have been published:

Eligibility Verification Notices

DWP Direct Deduction and Disqualification from Driving Orders

DWP Obtaining Information to Support Fraud Investigations in the Welfare System

These codes have been developed as essential safeguards to support the effective and proportionate application of the newly enacted PAFER legislation. I am grateful to all those who took the time to contribute their views on these documents. The feedback provided was detailed, considered and constructive and the codes have been strengthened as a result of this engagement.

The powers in the Act and the publication of these codes affirm our commitment to root out fraud and waste in public services and safeguard taxpayers’ money. These codes will guide the operation and governance of the new powers by setting out, in more detail, how DWP will apply these new powers to improve its ability to identify, prevent and deter social security fraud and error, and will support more effective recovery of debt.

Today’s action takes us one step closer in delivering the estimated benefits of £2.1 billion over the next five years, as scored by the independent Office for Budget Responsibility. I have every confidence that each code of practice provides a solid and effective foundation to ensure the safe and proportionate use of DWP’s new powers.

[HCWS1553]