Jen Clark, Amnesty International’s Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Lead, said:

“It’s a huge disappointment that this Bill has been voted through. The remaining cuts to Universal Credit will create a two-tier system, where new claimants or those with illnesses that vary day to day, such as mental health conditions and multiple sclerosis, are left at serious risk of being pushed into poverty.

“It’s been a disaster from start to finish. Sick and disabled people are left asking how the Government can make decisions that impact the lives of millions in this manner and have been left with little faith that the Government review will improve lives rather than create more harm.

“The Government needs to drastically reassess its attitude to social security and prioritise reducing rather than worsening poverty. We need a complete overhaul of the benefits system, so that it treats people with dignity and protects our human rights to food, housing and security.”