Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment she has made of the level of the rate of statutory sick pay; and what discussions she has held with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on increasing that rate.

Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) provides financial support to an employee when they are off work sick. Any increase to the rate of SSP would place an immediate, direct financial burden on employers at a time when we know many employers are struggling. This could put more jobs at risk.

Statutory Sick Pay is just part of our welfare safety net and our wider government offer to support people in times of need. Those on low pay can receive more help through the welfare system, depending on their personal circumstances.