The Conservatives would adopt a US-style scheme to force the long-term unemployed to work for their benefits if they got into power.

People who claim Jobseekers' Allowance for more than two years would have to take part in a 12-month community work scheme, under Tory plans. The programme would involve a "valuable improvement and amenity work in the areas where they live".

The party says those who refused to participate in their welfare to work programme would lose their benefits.

The Conservatives would also introduce a two-year limit on jobseekers' allowance, they argue this will help stop people claiming for years at a time.

All jobseekers would be screened as soon as they start claiming - those with a track record of claiming benefits would be referred to the centres straight away, others would be given a grace period to find a job. Those who refuse to take part will have their benefits cut.

Shadow work and pensions secretary Chris Grayling says: "All of this should also put an end to the situation where people can sit at home and make a career out of claiming out of work benefits.

"We want to provide real help for those who want to work - and be tough on those who are trying to avoid working."