A LOCAL MSP has sent a warning to the UK Government that a failure to increase statutory sick pay will cost lives.

South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has pleaded with Ministers to boost the level of sick pay or risk more lives being lost during the coronavirus crisis.

The Labour Party representative is being contacted by a growing number of constituents facing financial problems because they have had to self-isolate.

Their employment contract means they are only being paid statutory sick pay of £94.25 per week instead of their standard wages.

The local politician is concerned that the pressures facing some people who don’t have symptoms of coronavirus but need to self-isolate because a family member does means that they will be going to work rather than follow health advice over fears they won’t be able to afford household bills.

Mr Smyth in particular is worried for those with underlying health issues who would put themselves at risk by going to work because without their salary they cannot afford to spend weeks on statutory sick pay.

He has written to the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, pleading with the UK Government to increase the figure to ensure those who do self-isolate do not face financial meltdown.

He insists if the Chancellor fails to act then the Scottish Government will need to use their powers to up the level of sick pay.

Smyth has also urged the Scottish Gov to test as many people with symptoms and their family members are possible so people can return to work sooner.

He said: “I am deeply concerned at the growing number of people who have contacted me worried about the financial hardship they are facing. An increasing number of people are doing the right thing by self-isolating as they or a family member develop symptoms.

“But if their company only pays statutory sick pay, this means more and more will face financial problems. We should not be making people have to choose between self-isolating or paying the bills.

“I am pleading with the Chancellor of the Exchequer to increase the current paltry level of statutory sick pay. Without firm action there is no doubt that more lives will be lost.”

Both governments were contacted for comment by the Chronicle.

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