New measures allowing DWP officials to access benefit claimants' bank account information risk overlooking more significant issues. Legislation is progressing through Parliament that includes provisions for investigators to check the bank account information of people receiving particular benefits, to ensure they qualify for their payments. The 'eligibility verification measure' powers will initially apply to those claiming Universal Credit, Employment and Support Allowance and Pension Credit.

However, the draft legislation indicates this could extend to other benefits. Experts at free debt advice charity Money Wellness have raised concerns that the new banking checks won't address more pressing matters regarding why some people receive incorrect payments.

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