HELEN Jones MP has questioned the neutrality of the civil service after receiving a letter from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) in Cheshire.


The Warrington North MP spoke out after the acting head of the DWP in the region, Phil Royle, claimed the government policy on universal credit is “part of our long term economic plan”. 


Mrs Jones said the phrase was the exact same as the one used by government ministers.


Universal Credit is replacing six benefits and tax credits for working people next year but the Labour politician pointed out the National Audit Office had highlighted a number of areas of concern.


She added that the Public Accounts Committee of MPs calls the plans a “fiasco” and reports £140 million will be written off because of a botched IT programme.


Mrs Jones said: “This goes against the fundamental tenets of civil service neutrality. In seeking to update me on the progress of this farcical scheme, he’s resorted to parroting Tory party spin. 


"The fact is the policy isn’t working, is confusing, expensive and may never even happen. 


"In addition, many people who’ll receive the new benefit will be in work. It’s the continuing reliance on low paid, zero hour contracts and part-time temporary employment caused by the coalition’s economic policies that’s increasing hard-working people’s dependency on welfare, not ending it.


“That’s why Labour will end exploitative zero hour contracts, guarantee jobs for young people and raise the minimum wage."