Benson-Pope accused of benefit 'smokescreen'

Social Development Minister David Benson-Pope has been accused of hiding a benefit cut in a good news smokescreen.

He released a statement at the weekend in which he listed upcoming increases to benefit rates.

Green MP Sue Bradford said the minister failed to mention that the special benefit would cease to exist from the same day.

The special benefit is used to top up beneficiaries' income when they face financial hardship.