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Fraud: Dorset

Asked by Sir Christopher ChopeConservativeHome OfficeTabled Answered 20 November 2025UIN 86600

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if she will conduct an inquiry into the reasons why Dorset Police discontinued their investigation into the fraudulent activities identified in Operation Ringwood.

Answered by Sarah Jones

The Home Office is aware of the Operation Ringwood investigation and strongly sympathises with the distressing experience that victims have faced.

The Home Secretary is unable to intervene in any operational decisions made by law enforcement regarding reports and the investigation of potential crimes. This is to maintain the independence of the organisations involved, including the police and courts, which remains a fundamental part of the British justice system.

We are committed to strengthening law enforcement capabilities to tackle fraud and protect the public. Further detail will be set out in the upcoming Fraud Strategy.

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