Fewer hit by benefit cap

The Department for Work and Pensions says its estimate of the numbers likely to be hit by the government's benefits cap has been reduced from 56,000 to 40,000.

Couples and lone parents will have their benefits limited to £500 a week and people on their own to £350 a week, although those on Working Tax Credit or disability benefits will be exempted.

Those affected are likely to £93 a week each on average.

The DWP says many have already found work or moved to smaller homes.