ALMOST half of of vacancies advertised in job centres across Greater Manchester pay less than a couple with two young children would get on Income Support, according to a survey.

The research, carried out by the Greater Manchester Low Pay Unit, also found that 67.2 per cent of all full time jobs on offer paid at a level where families would be able to claim Working Families Tax credit to top up their wages.

Allison Foreman of the Low Pay Unit said: "Far too many people are earning too little to support their families and have to claim means tested benefits. This means that the Government is effectively subsidising low paying employers.

"The Government must look at not only the quantity of jobs but also the quality to ensure workers are provided with a decent level of income."