Debbie Abrahams MP, Labour’s Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary, responding to statistics showing an increase in assessment decisions overturned, said:

“The fact that such a high proportion of assessments are being overturned at appeal is a damning indictment of this government’s cruel social security reforms and six wasted years of austerity.

“These flawed Tory assessments only create further waste and expense, as thousands upon thousands are overturned in the courts.

“That’s why Labour has committed to scrapping the Work Capability Assessment and transforming our social security system, based on the principles of inclusion, dignity and support.”

Ends

Notes to editors

1. ‘Tribunals and gender recognition certificate statistics quarterly: July to September 2016’ published today show that 65 percent of Personal Independence Payment assessments and 62 percent of Work Capability Assessments are being overturned on appeal at tribunals.