MP makes call for 'humane'benefits tests

illnesses or serious mental health problems.

Fears about the system have intensified because tests are due to get even tougher, and this week’s Spending Review also included plans to limit the amount of time people are able to claim the benefit. From next spring all existing Incapacity Benefit claimants will also be tested to decide whether they are still entitled to support.

Mr Smith said the Government must ensure “those who are genuinely and obviously not fit for work are dealt with more humanely”, and said evidence from patients’ own doctors should be taken into account.

“We have to look at how we make it as humane as possible for people who are clearly ill and particularly terminally ill.”

Sue Royston, Social Policy Officer for Citizens Advice, said: “There are an awful lot of people who when they go to the ESA test very clearly can’t work and are being found fit for work. We have great concerns about that.

“A lot of backbenchers are seeing in their surgeries seriously ill people and think this is obviously wrong. There are many obviously wrong decisions being made.”

Work and Pensions Minister Chris Grayling said: “Our goal is, above all, to get this right. I do not want to do the wrong thing by those people who need support; I do want to do the right thing by the people with the potential to get back into work and make a better lot of their lives.”

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