Brighton MP Caroline Lucas has criticised Whitehall officials after it was revealed government departments are not paying the Living Wage to some agency staff.

Following parliamentary questions, Ms Lucas, the Green MP for Brighton Pavilion, was told that there at least 20 civil servants were not being paid £8.55 an hour or more.

Responses to Dr Lucas' office also revealed there were even more being employed via an agency using the “Swedish derogation”, which can allow agencies to pay temporary workers less than those on permanent contracts.

Dr Lucas said: “This Government says it wants to support hard-working people. It could start by paying them a living wage.

“Employers across the country are signing up to the campaign, and the Government should be leading by example.”