Progress on recovery of de-frauded money

Lambeth Council can today announce that it has succeeded in obtaining an interim judgement of almost £2 million against an alleged fraudster, Alex Watson Jones, and his associated companies.

The council proposes to pursue further court proceedings for an additional judgement of up to £800,000 early in the New Year.

Watson Jones was employed as a contractor to manage central heating installation programmes on behalf of Lambeth's Housing Department between February 2004 and July 2005. During this time it is alleged he was able to award work to a company, The House Surgeon and Company Ltd. It was later discovered that he himself held a major interest in the company and much of the work had not been undertaken. It is estimated the fraud amounts to £2.8 million, including VAT.

Lambeth has always stated it will make every effort and pursue every avenue available to recover the money.

A Court receiver has now been appointed to take the appropriate steps to recover the monies against the assets of Alex Watson Jones.

Lambeth Council Leader Peter Truesdale said: "This shows the firm action the Council has taken is beginning to pay off."

Deputy Leader John Whelan added: "This is excellent news - an early Christmas present for Lambeth. The Council is grateful to its legal team led by the Borough Solicitor Mark Hynes for the energy and determination they have applied to gaining this judgement. Con men beware - crime doesn't pay."