Tory MPs are worried George Osborne's tax letter will 'ruin Christmas'

Tory MPs are becoming increasingly frustrated about George Osborne's handling of proposed tax credit cuts which they say are "penalising" the working poor.

Speaking to the Sunday Telegraph, three Cabinet ministers and other senior Conservatives all expressed fears over the effect of the reforms which will hit 3.3 million families.

Of particular concern to others in his party are the rumours that the letter informing those who will be affected - and how much they are set to lose - is due to be delivered before Christmas.

Although the reforms have been approved twice in the Commons, there has been some vocal opposition from within the Conservative party, including from MP Heidi Allen who used her maiden speech to denounce the plans.

A vote will now be held in the House of Lords on Monday, where the Conservatives do not have a majority and the reforms may therefore be rejected.

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