Controversial cuts to benefits are going ahead without the promised measures being in place from the Government to offset their impact, the SNP has warned.

Neil Gray, the party's fair work and employment spokesman, said ministers have only delivered "vague commitments" despite previous pledges on employment and support allowance (ESA).

A £30-a-week reduction in ESA for claimants placed in the so-called Work Related Activity Group (Wrag) will come into force next week.

Mr Gray, speaking in the Commons as he failed in a bid to secure an emergency debate on the issue, said: "We were promised by the minister that mitigation would be in place before next week, but there has been no oral statement, no written statement, no announcement, just vague commitments to social tariffs and hardship funds.

"That's no way to treat people desperate for this support."

In November, MPs from eight political parties and a number of independents backed a motion calling for the Government to pause the cuts, which are also opposed by disability charities.

The cut will see claimants' weekly payments reduced from £102 a week to £73 a week.

Ministers say the cut will encourage ESA claimants to find work.

But Mr Gray said: "We already know that a large proportion of those currently in receipt of ESA Wrag are struggling to make ends meet on what they receive now.

"With that extra £30 a week, we have no idea what the impact will be on them when ESA Wrag is cut back.

"These are people with disabilities or mental health conditions who want to work, but are currently unable.

"Pushing them further towards or deeper into poverty will hinder not help any move towards employment."

Mr Gray's emergency debate application was rejected by Commons Speaker John Bercow.

"I have listened carefully to the application from him, but I'm afraid I'm not persuaded that this matter is proper to be discussed," Mr Bercow said.