The wrong conclusion...

CT, Gateshead (Letters, April 26) says that I must realise that the more generous sick pay schemes are, the more open to abuse they are.

I do, but of course this abuse will also occur where enlightened businesses in the private sector who value their employees offer generous schemes too, not just the public sector. As CT states ‘most sickness/ absence episodes are no doubt genuine’. Obviously then, no one wants to see the majority suffer for the actions of a minority.

CT states that ‘many things make her content – but seeing people suffer is not one of them’.

I’m pleased to know that I obviously came to the wrong conclusion in believing that CT was content to see some people suffer by being forced to go into work when they are ill due to the pitiful level of statutory sick pay they would receive, I apologise accordingly.

AW, Gosforth