Government ministers are working on plans to pay anyone who tests positive for Covid-19 in England, and therefore has to self-isolate, a payment of £500.
It is understood the move, which will cost around £453million weekly on the latest case numbers, is to try and encourage more people to get a coronavirus test and stay at home if their results are positive.
Currently, only people on low incomes or means-tested benefits are eligible for the one-off payment of £500 excluding many small business owners, self-employed workers and sole traders.
The move will put an end to concerns that people cannot afford to stay home from work when they are required to do so.
Environment Secretary George Eustice told Sky News that the Government has always kept the £500 payment “under review,” but that it is important people self-isolate when they are required to.
He said: “We do need people, if they are asked to self-isolate because they have been contacted through our Test and Trace, we do need them to self-isolate.
“And, obviously, we always review the reasons why they might not.”
“No decisions have been made on this.
“But, this is a dynamic, fast-moving situation with the pandemic.
“We are always keeping multiple policies under review.”
