CITY of York Council is imposing tough new measures to crack down on fraud and corruption.

The Fraud Response Plan sets down a policy to introduce initiatives, including the presumption that the council will consider prosecution in every case of fraud it uncovers.

Developed after recommendations from two Best Value reviews of the council's revenue and risk management services, the plan will guide officers in responding to fraud and corruption. Council research shows the public will back the plan, demanding the council be tougher with fraudsters.

Coun Viv Kind, deputy leader of the council, said: "People must take responsibility for their actions. Our Best Value reviews have included extensive consultation which showed that there is public support for the prosecution of fraudsters. The council will not tolerate fraud and corruption and while our officers will investigate all the circumstances of a crime they will seek prosecution in most cases."

Housing Benefit alone costs local tax payers £250,00 a year in overpayments, and last year the council conducted more than 600 investigations.

Under the new regulations councillors have agreed to take on the risk of loosing legal costs which are not always recoverable following a successful prosecution.

Fraud team leader Maggie Fitzgerald, said: "The council works hard to try to help the people claim the benefits they are entitled to but is equally determined to tackle fraud and prosecute those who claim benefit they are not entitled to and who are stealing taxpayers' money."

The council runs a confidential fraud hotline on 01904 553453.

Updated: 12:18 Friday, February 07, 2003