TRADE unionists in Salford in north-west England called yesterday for an independent investigation into callous benefits sanctions which they say are driving claimants to suicide and starvation.

The call follows the death of ex-solider David Clapson, who died with no food or money after a Department for Work and Pensions official stopped his benefits.

Diabetic Mr Clapson, 59, had his benefits stopped after missing an appointment.

He died in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, with £3.44 in his bank account.

He was malnourished and had stopped taking the insulin prescribed for his condition.

Salford Union and Community Resource Centre manager Alec McFadden said: “No civilised society should put its citizens and their families into poverty and put their lives at risk and, given what has happened, the government needs to seriously consider suspending the sanctions until a thorough, detailed enquiry is held.”