"If a scheme were to remove integration then generally employers or employees would have to pay more into the scheme, " said Mr Astley.

BBC: Fight to end pension 'clawback'

It said the scheme would remove eyesores which could attract criminal behaviour and create much needed, energy efficient family homes.

BBC: Empty homes ?1m renovation project starts

Yesterday the government made a significant u-turn on its controversial work experience scheme to remove any element of compulsion, after coming under pressure from protest groups.

BBC: 'Unions have been upstaged'

The Co-Op was the first chain to sign up to the optional scheme in Ipswich to remove any cut-price extra-strong long drinks.

BBC: Street drinker

Tesco has offered to pay people on the scheme and asked ministers to remove the threat of benefit sanctions.

BBC: Burger King leaves work experience scheme for jobless