Covid repayment window opens

The government has launched a voluntary repayment scheme to allow recipients of financial Covid support to repay outstanding money they were not entitled to or did not need with 'no questions asked'.

The government says that over £10 billion was lost to pandemic fraud, flawed contracts and waste under the previous government's pandemic era procurement and schemes. £1.54 billion has already been recovered through existing efforts.

It says it will do everything in its power to recoup money lost to Covid fraud.

All Covid schemes, including loans, grants, social security and tax benefits fall under the voluntary repayment scheme.

The government says that individuals who don't take the chance to come forward and repay outstanding money could face prosecution when it receives additional investigatory powers next year.

Changes to how director disqualification works could also see more people stopped from being involved in businesses or facing compensation orders.

A Covid fraud reporting website is also being launched to allow members of the public to report suspected fraud.

Covid Counter-Fraud Commissioner Tom Hayhoe said:

'Our message to those who still owe Covid era money is simple – pay now, clear your conscience, or face the consequences.

'This money belongs in communities, the NHS, police and armed forces. Those who don't take up this straightforward offer and have knowingly, wrongly claimed tax-payer-funded help could face prosecution, disqualification, or prison.

'The digital trail is forever, so the time to settle is now - before new investigatory powers and tougher rules come into force.'

Internet link: GOV.UK