UK Government Faces Challenges in Recovering £11bn Lost to Covid Scheme Fraud
A recent report has revealed that approximately £10.9 billion in taxpayer money was lost to fraud and error in the UK's Covid support schemes, with much of it now deemed 'beyond recovery'. The Covid Counter Fraud Commissioner, Tom Hayhoe, highlighted that the rapid deployment of these schemes during the pandemic exposed them to significant risks of fraud and error. The schemes, which included employment support measures like furlough, were crucial in sustaining the economy during lockdowns. However, they also became targets for fraudulent activities. The report indicates that while £1.8 billion has been recovered, the remaining funds are unlikely to be recouped. The investigation was initiated by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who tasked Hayhoe with assessing the extent of financial losses due to his expertise in procurement. 
