Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment the Government has made of the potential effect that the level of the rate of statutory sick pay will have on the number of employees who choose to self-isolate during the covid-19 outbreak as a result of an instruction through the NHS' test and trace system.

A high level of compliance with the restrictions introduced to combat covid-19 has led to the outbreak being brought under control. This Government has a strong safety net that helps people who are facing hardship and are unable to support themselves financially. We have taken steps to strengthen that safety net so that people are supported to do the right thing. We have extended eligibility for SSP, and made sure it is payable from day 1 – rather than day 4 – for employees affected by covid-19. Employers can choose to pay more than SSP and many do - 60% of employees receive more than the statutory minimum. SSP is just part of our welfare safety net and our wider government offer to support people in times of need. Where an individual’s income is reduced while off work sick and they require further financial support they may be able to claim Universal Credit and new style Employment and Support Allowance, depending on individual circumstances. We have ensured that benefits are easily accessible and more supportive for those who need to make a claim.