Member

The noble Baroness asked about the three-month point about notifying people about the order. At the three-month point, the order is lifted and then the person can be told, but it is not automatic. I remind the House that individuals will have every opportunity, if they get in touch, to agree an affordable repayment plan before we use these last resort powers. The DWP’s enforcement teams will make a minimum of four additional attempts to contact them before bank statements are requested. This really is a last resort power. Those who cannot afford even the lowest repayment terms will not be forced into making repayments, although they may be asked to provide evidence if their bank statements indicate that repayment is affordable. I hope that explains the rationale for why we need bank statements and reassures the noble Baroness on the questions she has raised, and I encourage her not to move her amendment. I am grateful for the support from the noble Viscount, and I urge the House to support Amendments 89, 91, 101 and 102 in my name.