§ Mr. Greg Knightasked the Secretary of State for Social Services how he proposes to follow up the options for changes in statutory sick pay identified in the White Paper "Lifting the Burden" Cmnd. 9571, published on 16 July.
§ Mr. WhitneyBefore considering whether the options on statutory sick pay contained in the White Paper should be pursued, the Government are seeking the views of interested parties. I have accordingly issued a consultation paper today to organisations representing both employers and employees interests. The purpose of the consultation paper is not at this stage to put forward Government proposals but to provide an appropriate opportunity for comment from those who would be affected if such changes were to be made. Decisions will then be taken in the light of the comments received.