Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what account is taken of medical conditions when deciding whether to apply benefit sanctions.

The decision to temporarily reduce or halt a benefit payment is always thoroughly considered and is not something we do lightly.

Claimants are only asked to meet reasonable requirements, taking into account their individual circumstances and capability, including health conditions, disability and any caring responsibilities. These requirements are clearly explained and agreed with their Jobcentre Plus Work Coach and set out in their Claimant Commitment.