§ Mr. Ken HargreavesTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services if there are any plans to provide a social security advice service specifically for employers and the self-employed; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PortilloYes. A new free telephone inquiry service will become operational on 22 February 1988. The social security advice line for employers will provide expert advice on national insurance contributions and the payment of statutory sick pay and statutory maternity pay. The service will be useful to all employers and independent payrolling services, and particularly helpful for people starting up a new business, the self-employed and small businesses without a separate wages section. A free telephone call will enable them to check that they are following the correct procedures.