21 February 2017

What: In the report, the committee urges the Department for Work and Pensions to review the use of sanctions, which it finds “have increased in severity in recent years and can have serious consequences”. It says it is also concerned that the department does not know whether “vulnerable” claimants, some of whom can be excused from having to meet benefit conditions, receive the protection to which they are entitled.

Why significant: Further pressure on government to act over the serious adverse impact of sanctions on benefit claimants.