To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people who claimed to be entitled to free prescriptions in 2005 were subsequently (a) found not to be so entitled and(b) successfully prosecuted. (104012)

It is not possible to provide this information on a calendar year basis. Accordingly, the following information is based on the 2005-06 financial year.

In respect of (a) the number of people who claimed to be entitled to free prescriptions and were subsequently found not to be so entitled was 3,202.

In respect of (b) 179 individuals were successfully prosecuted.

The Department remains committed to the continuing reduction of loss of funds due to fraud and theft.