SWINDON North MP and Minister for Disabled People Justin Tomlinson has backed his former boss at the Department of Work and Pensions following personal criticism.

On Friday, the Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan-Smith resigned from his cabinet position, citing recent cuts to disability benefits as the reason.

This has led to a fall-out within the Conservative Party and fellow DWP colleague Ros Altmann has launched an attack on her former boss, saying he was exceptionally difficult to work for.

But in a statement, Mr Tomlinson has said this was not the case and he had no problems working for the former party leader.

He said: “Iain always conducted himself in a professional, dedicated and determined manner. He actively encouraged ministers and teams to engage, challenge and develop ideas.

“We were to be ourselves, our judgement backed as we worked as a team both for DWP and the Gov.”

The issue has arisen from Wednesday’s budget when it was announced the way the Personal Independent Payment (PIP) was calculated was due to be changed.

This will result in some recipients losing out and has led to a backlash from many campaigners and MPs.

Chippenham MP Michelle Donelan has written to Mr Tomlinson to say she will not be backing the proposals.

In the letter, which was also sent to the Prime Minister, said the changes were a step too far.