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Covid-19: Statutory Sick Pay
02 March 2021
Lead MP
Richard Burgon
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
EmploymentBenefits & Welfare
Other Contributors: 0
At a Glance
Richard Burgon raised concerns about covid-19: statutory sick pay in the House of Commons. A government minister responded.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The MP highlighted the inadequacies of statutory sick pay during the pandemic, citing low income levels and exclusion criteria that disproportionately affect lower-paid workers. He shared heartbreaking stories from constituents struggling to meet basic needs while on sick pay. The speech emphasised the government's failure to protect workers financially, leading to unnecessary loss of life and exacerbating social inequalities. Labour called for urgent action to increase statutory sick pay to the real living wage level and remove income eligibility barriers.
Government Response
The Minister acknowledged the debate's importance but defended government measures taken during the pandemic. He highlighted actions such as introducing the coronavirus job retention scheme, extending statutory sick pay to those self-isolating or shielding, and providing financial support through schemes like universal credit adjustments and the £500 test and trace support programme. The Minister emphasised the economic burden on employers from an increase in sick pay rates during a time of struggle for businesses. He also discussed ongoing consultations on long-term reform of statutory sick pay to better support employees with fluctuating health conditions, aiming to improve phased returns to work and employer guidance.
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.