A “SENSELESS” benefits test is costing the NHS almost £8 million a year as a result of the use of extra services, the MS Society says.

The charity, which supports people who suffer from multiple sclerosis (MS), has hit out at a rule which can stop people able to walk more than 20 metres from claiming the higher rate of mobility support under the personal independence payment (PIP), the Department for Work & Pensions replacement for the disability living allowance (DLA).

The charity says that, under the DLA with its 50-metre test, 94 per cent of claimants qualified for the higher payment. Now just 66 per cent do under PIP.

As a result, more MS sufferers are being forced to make increased use of GP and A&E services.

MS Society director Genevieve Edwards said PIP is “causing enormous harm” to people with MS, with many losing their independence.

“This senseless and unfounded rule is leading to people with the highest need facing the biggest losses,” she said.

A survey of 1,234 people with MS found that 39 per cent had increased their use of GP services since the switch to PIP and 30 per cent said they had been forced to cut back on spending on treatment or therapies.

Royal Surrey County Hospital consultant neurologist Waqar Rashid said that there is “no scientific rationale or basis” for the 20-metre rule.

Shadow work & pensions secretary Margaret Greenwood said the government is failing disabled people.

“In recent months it has twice had to back down after court judgements that the way that disabled people are assessed under PIP is unlawful.

“Access to transport is a key issue for many disabled people so that they can be as independent as possible.

“Too many disabled people are just not getting the support they should be under PIP.”