I REFER to the letter from Michael Fox (LET, June 16) concerning housing benefit fraud and related issues.

Obviously I cannot go into any detail about the individual case highlighted by Mr Fox, but I can reassure him that all claims for housing benefit are thoroughly checked and appropriate action is taken whenever fraud is discovered or suspected.

Along with local authorities across the country, Blackburn with Darwen will shortly introduce the Government's new 'Verification Framework,' which will involve even more detailed and regular checking of housing benefit claims. This should result in earlier and more effective detection of fraud and, equally important, further service improvements for the overwhelming majority of our customers who are in genuine need.

GEORGE CAMPLING, Director of Rights, Advice and Entitlements, Blackburn with Darwen Council.

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