Live COVID news from UK and around the world<\/strong><\/p>\n The proposal, described as the department’s “preferred position”, follows research that suggested only 17% of people with COVID-19<\/strong> symptoms come forward to get a test because they fear losing their income if they stop working due to the requirement to self-isolate.<\/p>\n However, Number 10 on Friday denied that the government is planning a wide expansion of the current self-isolation support payment scheme.<\/p>\n At present, only those on a low income who cannot work from home and receive one of seven means-tested benefits are eligible to claim a £500 payment.<\/p>\n Asked about the proposal, the prime minister’s official spokesman told reporters: “There are no plans to introduce an extra £500 payment.<\/p>\n “We already offer a £500 payment to support those on low incomes who cannot work from home.<\/p>\n “We’ve given local authorities £70m for the scheme and they are able to provide extra payments on top of those £500 if they think it necessary.<\/p>\n “That £500 is on top of any other benefits and statutory sick pay that people are eligible for.”<\/p>\n Asked about the 16-page Department of Health and Social Care paper, the spokesman said he would not comment on leaked documents.<\/p>\n He added the “vast majority of the public continue to abide by the rules and do isolate when they are asked”.<\/p>\n Pressed on Cabinet Office data suggesting just 17% of people with COVID symptoms are coming forward for a test, the spokesman said: “I would point to the number of tests that are being conducted every day.<\/p>\n “You will see those figures are high and have been for some time.<\/p>\n “It remains the case that the vast majority of those who are symptomatic do get a (test), and again I would point to the stats that are published.<\/p>\n “We are testing more people than ever before.”<\/p>\n![](\"https:\/\/e3.365dm.com\/21\/01\/768x432\/skynews-george-eustice_5246284.jpg\")
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