The first of five documentaries exploring Britain's social security system.

The Department of Social Security provides a lifeline for millions of disadvantaged people in Britain. But it is a vast, complex network which consumes one third of all government expenditure.

When Peter Lilley took over the DSS in 1992, many feared that its budget would be drastically cut. Instead, it has spiralled even further upwards. This programme looks at the scale of Mr Lilley's problems in controlling the system, as genuine claimants' patience is tested and fraudsters cash in.
(Stereo) (Subtitled)
See Polly Toynbee: page 16

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