MP joins work-test protest

OLDHAM MP Michael Meacher joined hundreds of protesters in London at the weekend calling for the Atos work capability assessments to be scrapped.

Mr Meacher has been an avid campaigner against the controversial tests since the death of his constituent Colin Traynor, who had been assessed fit for work despite severe epilepsy.

The Labour MP said: “We cannot stand idly by while our communities and institutions are devastated by this government.”

Around 300 disabled and able-bodied people protested in Parliament Square demanding the Work Capability Assessment be scrapped and a new deal based on need, ability and ambition be introduced.

A 52,000-strong petition was then handed in to Downing Street.