Jobseekers risk losing their benefits unless they accept certain types of zero-hours contracts, say government ministers.

The new universal credit system means unemployed people must accept casual contracts that come without a guarantee of work. Until now, claimants could refuse such contracts without fear of a penalty.

In a letter published in the Guardian newspaper, employment minister Esther McVey said Jobcentre staff could “mandate” zero hours if they thought the role was suitable.

Government stats show that zero hours contracts give 25 hours an average of work a week.

A spokesman from the Department for Work and Pensions told the BBC website: "Universal credit payments will adjust automatically depending on the hours a person works to ensure that people whose hours may change are financially supported and do not face the hassle and bureaucracy of switching their benefit claims.”