The DWP is to get new powers to clamp down on benefit fraud (Image: Getty)

Officials are set to receive significant new powers to tackle benefit fraud, under new legislation. The measures will enable DWP investigators to directly withdraw money from bank accounts where people owe funds and are refusing to repay them.

In circumstances where officials are unable to recover all the funds, you can even be disqualified from driving. This sanction will be applied when outstanding debts exceed £1,000.

The direct deduction powers are designed to help reclaim money from those who have exited the benefits system. Current legislation only permits the DWP to recover debts through benefit deductions or through PAYE wage deductions.

Before making any direct deduction, officials must request a mini

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