Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves has promised a review of the law to impose longer sentences on criminals who defraud the taxpayer. Currently, there is no specific offense for fraud against the public purse, except for welfare and tax fraud. Reeves highlighted the £7.2 billion lost to fraud in Covid support schemes as the motivation behind the proposed legal changes.

Pursuing the Fraudsters

Reeves, who previously worked as an economist at the Bank of England, emphasized the importance of taxpayers' money. As Chancellor, she vowed to appoint a Covid Corruption Commissioner with the necessary powers to track down and recover every penny of the ripped-off taxpayer's money. The funds lost to fraud belong to crucial sectors such as schools, hospitals, and the police, and they must be reclaimed.

Tougher Sentencing

Labour's plans go beyond recovering the stolen funds. A future Labour government would consider implementing tougher sentencing for those who exploit the taxpayer. Reeves pointed to other countries such as the US, Canada, and Australia, which have already taken steps to hold fraudsters accountable. The aim is to ensure that criminals face the appropriate consequences for their actions.

Respecting Taxpayers' Money

Reeves stressed that a Labour government will always treat taxpayers' money with the utmost respect and hold those who misuse it accountable. By reviewing the law and introducing stricter measures, Labour aims to protect the public purse and deter fraudsters from defrauding the taxpayer.