Please note, this is an archived story. Please check the date above.

Benefit Fraud Inspectors who, 12 months ago, checked housing and council tax benefit administration and counter fraud activity, have just published their findings.

Last year the council came under severe criticism for the way it handled housing and council tax benefit claims which led to many council and private landlord tenants being threatened with eviction.

A backlog in processing benefits claimed meant many people entitled to help with their rent and council tax payments did not receive it and slipped into debt.

The inspectors' report found new claims were being processed and paid promptly where customers provided the necessary documentation and information.

A target of 14 days has been set by the local authority to process new claims but council officials say more than 80% of new claims are delayed by failure to provide necessary information.

The report found the existing backlog is being reduced at a steady rate thanks to the recruitment of 50 additional staff. The size of the Fraud Investigation Group has also been increased to clamp down on cheats.

City council treasurer Richard Paver welcomed the report.

He said: "We have significantly overhauled our benefits service over the last 18 months and feel we are now starting to offer the standard of service that we aspire to.

"New Government rules and a new computer system introduced in Autumn 1999 initially created an increased work load.

"We are systematically working through the backlog and there is now a sustained reduction in the amount of work outstanding.

"We are continuing to recruit and train staff and prioritise work to ensure targets are met."