Good Morning Britain viewers issued a demand as Martin Lewis grilled Sajid Javid
The consumer champion fronted Monday's edition of ITV's flagship daytime programme alongside Susanna Reid. The two interviewed Mr Javid and questioned the Health Secretary on the government's "Living with Covid" measures.
The government has axed the £500 Test and Trace Support Payment - and statutory sick pay for people who are self-isolating. The Money Saving Expert quizzed Mr Javid on whether this is effectively telling people to go to work even if they test positive for coronavirus.
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Mr Javid responded: "We had sick pay in place long before we had covid. We are learning as a country to live with covid as we live with other infectious diseases like flu. Because we have the vaccines the impact of covid, in terms of keeping people out of hospital and saving their lives is a lot less than when we first discovered it.
"When it comes to somebody having to take time off work or socialising less because they believe they might be positive, that is handled in the same way all other infectious diseases are."
The Money Saving Expert probed on whether people on low incomes should go to work if they test positive as the UK faces a cost-of-living crisis.
He said: "You're saying they should take it on the chin and suck it up, are you? Stay at home, but suck up the costs."
Mr Javid disagreed with Martin's claim - and said it is up to people to make a decision based on their circumstances. Martin interjected and blasted the government for not offering clarity.
He said: "It is the finance, not the guidance. There's no finances in place."
Mr Javid insisted it is up to people to exercise "personal responsibility."
He said: "What should people do if they have flu. They should make a determination, use common sense and personal responsibility to decide what is the best next step forward.
"We cannot have a situation where the government constantly keeps providing universal free testing that will cost some £2bn extra a month, particularly if other things are rightly demanded of government to help people with cost of living."
Viewers following the show on Twitter praised Martin for making Sajid Javid "squirm" and took to the social media platform to call on the Money Saving Expert to be made full-time presenter.
Valerie said: "Martin Lewis is the best presenter on #GMB for holding top politicians to account. He absolutely smashed it interviewing @sajidjavid brilliant viewing."
@MrsCalrke63 added: "Really measured, challenging and well-pitched interview with @sajidjavid So much better when Martin is there with Susanna. #GMB"
Simon said: "GMB should have Martin Lewis presenting far more often especially when it comes to interviewing government ministers. Javid is not having an easy time this morning."
Tessa posted : "Really, really enjoying @MartinSLewis on #GMB this morning. He's money minded, so knows exactly the right questions to ask - I'm loving watching him make the Secretary of State for Health SQUIRM. Yes Martin"
Jtweeted: "I wish @MartinSLewis presented every day"
@SunderlandLolly posted: "Pls pls pls can @MartinLewis and @adilray be main @GMB presenters??"
Edward said: "Should be a full time role, for @MartinSLewis"
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays at 6am on ITV and ITV Hub
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