Readers back calls to suspend Universal Credit sanctions during coronavirus outbreak

Claimants who are being reassessed are usually required to travel to a testing centre. | PA (Press Association)

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has called for a number of measures to be introduced as part of emergency legislation in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.

He asked ministers to remove the requirement to present for Universal Credit interviews in all cases, immediately suspend sanctions and reduce the waiting time of five weeks for the first payment of the benefit.

The DWP has since said face-to-face interviews would be suspended for at least three months.

We asked in our poll if you thought this should happen.

At the time of writing, 75% said yes, 25% no. Here is what you said on social media.

Ivor Prestwood said: “What a time to try and score some political points! He’s probably lobbying for the age of self isolation to be raised to 90.”

Kev Morson said: “So he’s asking for the most vulnerable to get some additional support, and people are struggling with that because Corbyn has said it?”

Tommy Prosser said: “Although I am not a fan of Jeremy he has a valid point. To be honest, in present situation I don't think which side of the political fence you are on, any sensible idea to make life easier has got to be considered.”

David Douglas said “Who would answer ‘no’ to this question.”

Mandy Lancaster said: “Why is this man still talking? He's done and just out to cause trouble in a potentially terrible situation. Despicable man.”