Frank Field tells MPs of Birkenhead constituent forced to live 'off 7p a day'

Ministers have been warned that Universal Credit still has "real problems" as Labour MP Frank Field revealed how one constituent had been forced to live on 7p a day.

Mr Field, who chairs the work and pensions select committee, urged the Government to rethink axing administrative staff as the benefit was rolled out.

The Birkenhead MP, speaking during work and pensions questions in the Commons, said: "There are 98 members on temporary contracts in Birkenhead going to be laid off because its the end of their contract period.

"We're likely to still be having real problems with the roll out of universal credit, I had five cases last week - one with a woman reduced to living off 7p.

"Might some of those staff, if not all of them, be redeployed to make sure there is the smooth transition from traditional benefits to the new one."

Work and Pensions Secretary Esther McVey said she was happy to talk to Mr Field about his concerns.