To help do this, the Cabinet Office carries out the National Fraud Initiative data matching exercise. This involves public bodies across the country sending in certain types of data to the Cabinet Office, which they then compare to spot any differences or anomalies in order to prevent and detect fraud. Where a match is found it may indicate that there is an inconsistency which requires further investigation. No assumption can be made as to whether there is fraud, error or other explanation until an investigation is carried out.

The North East Combined Authority participates in the National Fraud Initiative data matching exercise to assist in the prevention and detection of fraud. We are required to provide particular sets of data, including those noted below, to the Minister for the Cabinet Office for matching for each exercise.

• Trade Creditors
• Payroll

The use of data by the Cabinet Office in a data matching exercise is carried out with statutory authority under Part 6 of the local Audit and Accountability Act. It does not require the consent of the individuals concerned under the Data Protection Act or the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR). Data matching by the Cabinet Office is subject to a code of practice.

Information on the Cabinet Office’s legal powers and the reasons why it matches particular information is available here. For further information you can contact us on internal.audit@northtyneside.gov.uk.