Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what progress her Department is making on removing the Lower Earnings Limit for Statutory Sick Pay as set out in her Department's response to the Health is Everyone's Business consultation.

In the Government’ response to the Health is Everyone’s Business consultation it was made clear that the pandemic was not the right time to introduce changes to the Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) system or its eligibility criteria as this would have placed an immediate and direct cost on employers at a time where many were struggling.

As we learn to live with Covid-19, government is continuing to take a broader look at the role of SSP and is keeping the system under review.

Many of those earning below the Lower Earnings Limit of £120 per week, who are not eligible for SSP, are already in receipt of benefits. Those who are not already in receipt of benefits may be able to claim Universal Credit and new style Employment and Support Allowance.