I want the parliament to reconsider recent powers is has given DWP under universal credit to require banks to carry out certain checks linked to benefit eligibility for vulnerable people. I want them to consider rescinding these powers especially where they appear to be being used inappropriately.
People on universal credit are often vulnerable people. We believe it sets a dangerous precedent for a government department to have unchallenged access to bank account information with no justification. There are serious concerns around GDPR and how DWP will guarantee that people’s personal information will not be mishandled or uploaded to computer systems without consent. If accused of tax evasion your bank information is still considered private. DWP can routinely do this with no evidence of wrongdoing.