STEPHEN German, the Trade Unionist and Socialist Coalition candidate at the General Election in Taunton Deane, joined activists campaigning against Department of Work and Pensions sanctions.

Mr German, speaking at the event in Taunton High Street, said over a million benefit sanctions were imposed last year, including over 100 people with severe mental health problems every day.

Mr German, whose party opposes all cuts and privatisations, says he would only accept £23,000 of his £74,000 MP’s salary if elected – and is challenging the other candidates in the constituency to make the same commitment.