The Social Development Minister says new sanctions will give beneficiaries less choice for spending money.

The Government is ramping up obligations for those on Jobseeker benefits, and a Traffic Light System of punishments when they aren't met.

People hitting 'Red' can expect half their benefit income to be put on a payment card, used only for accessing essential items.

Louise Upston says the card is already in use for young parents and people on Youth Payment.

"They can still spend it on clothes, on petrol, on grocery items - but there will be restrictions. So people can't buy cigarettes, for example." 

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