Once again the Conservative, Lib Dem supported, Government is cutting help to societies most vulnerable.

Tens of thousands of people with sight loss will lose around £30 a week, and stop receiving support to find work under benefit changes due to start next month. The new “assessing process” totally ignores the difficulties they face searching for work.

The new test means that blind people will be unlikely to score enough points to qualify for help to find work and will automatically go on to Jobseeker's Allowance, which pays around £30 less a week than the existing Incapacity Benefit.

In the computer-led test the blind and partially sighted need to score 15 points on their physical and mental abilities to retain higher benefit payments.

This “score” is awarded if they are unable to navigate around familiar surroundings without being accompanied by another person due to sensory impairment.

Those with guide dogs will not be awarded full points and will lose benefits.

This cut is taking place after a recent survey found 92 per cent of employers found blind or partially sighted people difficult or impossible to employ.

Surely this is a cut too far.

Coun Tracey Simpson-Laing Labour spokesperson for health, housing and adult social services, Salisbury Road, York.