Sharing and use of social security information
26.The Act also concerns the sharing and use of social security information. Section 41 enables an increase in the sharing of administrative functions between the Department for Work and Pensions and local authorities, including English county councils and will widen the use of social security information held by these authorities. These measures are aimed at supporting joint working arrangements and improving the take-up and delivery of benefits and other services administered by the Department for Work and Pensions and local authorities. Section 42 enables greater information exchange between the Department for Work and Pensions and certain local authorities and among certain local authorities for benefit purposes and for purposes connected with the provision of welfare services. Section 43 is consequential on section 42 and creates a criminal offence for unauthorised onward disclosure of information to complement section 123 of the Social Security Administration Act 1992.
