Welfare–to–work investigation

The government has launched an investigation into an allegation of attempted fraud against welfare to work company A4e, it was announced yesterday.

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) said it had been made aware of an allegation of attempted fraud in relation to a mandatory work activity contract with the firm, which is already facing a police investigation in relation to previous allegations.

A statement said: “As a result of this new allegation, DWP has commenced its own independent audit of all our commercial relationships with A4e.

“We have required A4e to make available all documentation which our auditors may require and provide full access to interview any A4e employees.”

The statement added: “This is separate from the independent review of internal controls which A4e has previously announced.”