The first set of statistics on the government‘s mandatory work activity (MWA) programme reveals that from when the scheme started in May 2011 until November, 24,010 jobseekers were referred to work for four weeks unpaid for 30 hours a week.

Under the scheme – the first of its kind in the UK – jobcentre managers have the power to make unemployed people do a month‘s work experience at charities, government offices or high-street chains if they feel claimants „fail to demonstrate the focus and discipline necessary to seek out, secure and retain employment opportunities“.