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The BBC has approached the DWP for a response to Mr Lucas's comments.

For eight years her mother Joy Dove fought for a second inquest after the first hearing ruled suicide, but failed to take into account the role the DWP decision played in the death.

The DWP said it was "deeply regretful" after the inquest heard Ms Whiting "had lost hope" at the time of her death.

An initial inquest in May 2017 recorded a verdict of suicide but did not consider the actions of the DWP in stopping her benefits.

She said: "The consultant psychiatrist went right through Jodey's life and read all the reports and I'm pleased he agreed that what the DWP did was the straw that broke the camel's back."