Switch to an accessible version of this website which is easier to read. (requires cookies)

Simplified benefits needed - not expensive IT projects

September 5, 2006 4:58 PM
Photo of computer

Lib Dems believe simplifying benefits would be more effective than installing a new IT system

Commenting on today's revelation that the Department for Work and Pensions has scrapped a new benefits processing computer system at a cost of £141m, Andrew Simpson said:

"This is just another in a long line of computer systems which have failed through government incompetence.

"With the ludicrous complexity this Government has put into the benefits system, it is no surprise that the creation of a single payment system has proved so problematic.

"The explosion of means tested benefits under this Government has created such complexity that many, often the most vulnerable, do not claim the benefits to which they are entitled.

Commenting, Lib Dem Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary, David Laws MP said "Rather than merely treating the symptoms of an over complex benefits system through expensive and failed IT systems, the Government should act to make the whole benefits systems fairer and simpler."

To find out more about Lib Dem policy on benefits go to: www.libdems.org.uk/benefits

What would you like to do next?

  • Subscribe for updates

    Read updates from this website in your desktop or online news reader

    • On a news reader website

      •  
      •  
      •  

      In a desktop news reader or a website not listed above

      •  
    • Example monthly digest email
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your email address, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image

    Join our email list

    • If you submit your email address, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image

    Follow the party's activity on...

  • Share this page

    Share this page on another website

    Link to this page

    On websites and printed material:
    andrew-simpson.org.uk/en/article/2006/033480/simplified-benefits-needed-not-expensive-it-projects
    In text messages, Twitter, or reading over the phone:
    andrew-simpson.org.uk/a01pK

    Email this page to a friend


    • Generate different image
  • Help out or donate

    Help out in your local area

      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
      •  
    • If you submit your email address, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us.


    • Generate different image
  • Tell us what you think

    Send us your views

    • If you choose to join our email list, the Liberal Democrats and their elected representatives may use the information you have provided to contact you from time to time about issues we think you may find of interest. Some of the contacts may be automated. You can opt out of some or all contacts at any time by contacting us. You do not need to join our email list to complete this form.


    • Generate different image