Thousands of workers are expected to strike

The stoppage by members of the Public and Commercial Services union is the latest in a long-running pay dispute.

Union leaders are warning that it will lead to widespread disruption at Jobcentres, benefits offices and pensions centres.

But the Department for Works and Pensions say contingency plans are in place for benefits to be paid out.

Bonus scheme

The walkout will be the third this year in a long-running pay dispute over pay and a controversial bonus scheme.

Mark Serwotka, general secretary of the PCS said it was "divisive and unfair".

However, Sir Richard Mottram, permanent secretary at the DWP, called the action "unjustified", saying "the unions have been invited to participate in a review of the performance and development system".

The PCS is calling on Work and Pensions Secretary Andrew Smith to intervene in the dispute.