Mel Stride MP is scheduled for an in-depth questioning by the Work and Pensions Committee at 9.25 am on Wednesday May 22. This examination forms part of an accountability check on DWP, covering recent announcements and policy developments.
Who Will Accompany the Secretary During This Session?
Mel Stride will be joined at his hearings by Peter Schofield, Permanent Secretary for DWP. Together they should address all concerns of the committee effectively.
What Topics Will the Committee Address?
This committee may address numerous pressing topics, including the UK Government’s approach to welfare reform and any proposed modifications for assessing health eligibility of Universal Credit and transition schedule for existing claimants from legacy benefits.
How is the Department of Workforce Protection Responding to Fraud and Error in its System?
An important topic of conversation will be the Department for Work and Pension’s recently issued Fraud and Error report, detailing its efforts and strategies to prevent financial inaccuracies from its system.
What Are Being Done Regarding Carer’s Allowance Overpayments?
Carer’s Allowance overpayments remain an ongoing challenge for DWP initiatives and plans, so members of this committee should question any proposed solutions from them as to how best they might address this situation.
What Does the Government Stand for Regarding the PHSO Report?
Responding to Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) findings regarding changes to women’s State Pension ages will be one of the central themes this spring. On March 21, PHSO published their six-year investigation, concluding with their report alleging DWP failed adequately communicate changes affecting millions of women.
How will DWP Aid Women Affected by State Pension Age Changes?
After reviewing the Public Health Service Office report, there has been an urgent call to create a compensation scheme to provide compensation to approximately 3.8 million women impacted by State Pension age revisions. A committee may wish for clarification as to how and when such an initiative may take effect from DWP.
What Previous Correspondence Has Influenced This Session?
Recent correspondence from Sir Stephen Timms, Chairman of the Work and Pensions Committee, to Mel Stride following their oral evidence session with WASPI Campaign was one factor behind its necessity.
What Can We Expect From This Accountability Session?
On May 22nd, it is anticipated that this session will prove extremely educational and influential in shaping future policies. With high-ranking DWP officials present and pressing issues at hand, it should give important insights into how the department is handling significant welfare challenges in the UK.