Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what steps he is taking to reduce the number of false claims for sickness absence.

Sickness absence policies are a matter for employers. However, the Government supports employers in managing sickness absence through Fit for Work, which provides an occupational health assessment for those suffering from long term sickness absence; and general health and work advice to employees, employers and GPs. It is free to use for all.

Where an employee may be eligible for statutory sick pay when on sick leave, the employer has responsibility for determining whether they accept that their employee is incapable of work. Guidance is available at https://www.gov.uk/employers-sick-pay/overview