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The Government has been challenged to protect domestic abuse survivors by splitting couples’ Universal Credit.

Labour leadership hopeful Keir Starmer called on them to deliver separate payments of the benefit to couples.

The former Director of Public Prosecutions warned that joint benefits risk trapping women in abusive relationships.

UC is paid in one lump sum per household, which activists say allows cruel abusers to control their victims by cutting off all cash.

A survey of domestic abuse survivors found that over half of those living with their abuser said they could not afford to leave.

Mr Starmer told the Mirror: “Joint payments are unnecessary and offer an easy mechanism for abusers to coercively control their partners.

“UC should be scrapped and replaced with a social security system fit for the 21st century."

(Image: Daily Record)

He went on: “Until then, we must fight to reduce the damage caused by this deeply flawed system.

“Removing the risk of survivors being trapped in abusive relationships is an important first step.”

The Labour MP wants the changes to be made in the up-coming Domestic Violence bill.

Faced with complaints over the system, ministers introduced the option of a “split payment” to ensure money goes to both partners.

But the split payments were not be taken up - because victims would be afraid of requesting them.

Office for National Statistics figures suggest that almost one in three women aged 16-59 will experience domestic abuse in her lifetime. Women’s Aid claims the “vast majority” of domestic abuse survivors will have experienced financial abuse.

Mr Starmer’s leadership bid was boosted as an Ipsos Mori poll suggested he would have the best chance of attracting new voters to Labour.

The shadow Brexit secretary had the best score among his rivals with 32% of the public and 45% of Labour voters saying he has what it takes.

Some 35% of the public said they could back Labour with him in charge.

However, only 20% of non-Labour supporters said he would make them likely to back the party.