UP to 100 families in Inverclyde could lose a total of £600,000 a year as the new benefits cap comes into force.

According to latest updates from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), that is the number of Inverclyde households likely to be affected.

They will now no longer be able to claim more than £20,000 under the UK Government’s new rule.

It is part of the government’s welfare reforms and has come under attack from anti-poverty campaigners.

But local Tory councillor David Wilson, pictured, argues that the cap is ‘reasonable and fair’.

Cllr Wilson said: “It is only right that you should not be able to earn more on benefits than you would if you were working.

“That is the key to this – and the taxpayers in my ward support that.

“I think a £20,000 benefit cap is quite reasonable.

“I think you have to remember that this does not include disability benefits.”

In their report the DWP say the policy will encourage people to find a job.

As a result of the cap, half of those affected will have their housing benefit cut.

The average weekly housing benefit reduction will be £47, with the highest expected to be £126. 

Inverclyde Council will be stepping in with the offer of support through the Discretionary Housing Payment scheme to help with half of the reduction.

Arrangements have also been put in place with services set up to help benefit claimants.