4 CONCLUSION
35. The Ombudsman's report illustrates in stark terms
some of the bad administrative practice which has marred an otherwise
well-intentioned government scheme. We must concur with the Ombudsman
that resolving these problems will be a long haul. We note that
a start has already been made. In her statement on 26 May 2005
on tax credit overpayments, the Paymaster General outlined steps
to improve administration and on 5 December 2005 she announced
a number of further improvements most of which are due to come
into effect over the next 18 months.[45]
It is for others in the House to examine the policy behind the
scheme. We welcome the fact that the Treasury sub-committee has
announced its intention to inquire into the administration of
tax credits. For our part we will monitor the Revenue's progress
in implementing the Ombudsman's recommendations. We trust too
that other government departments will pause and think carefully
about the lessons to be learned from this case - and act on them.
45 HC Deb, 26 May 2005, col 23WS and HC Deb, 5 December
2005, col 55WS. Back
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