738.This paragraph replaces section 110 of the Administration Act with new sections 109A, 109B and 109C. Section 110 sets out the powers of inspectors who are appointed by the Secretary of State – this means those investigating fraud in all social security benefits.
739.The powers in new sections 109A, 109B and 109C can be used in relation to “relevant social security legislation”. This is set out in new section 121DA inserted by paragraph 8 of this Schedule. The change to the term “relevant social security legislation” does not expand the scope of inspectors’ powers except in so far as Jobseeker’s Allowance inspections are now subject only to the new powers. Sections 33 and 34 of the Jobseekers Act 1995 are being repealed.
Part III: Social Security Administration Investigation Powers Schedule 6 Paragraph 2: Replacement for inspectors’ powers