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<p>The standard rate of Statutory Maternity Pay (SMP) is reviewed annually, alongside
state benefits, and is generally increased in line with the Consumer Prices Index
(CPI). From April 2022 the standard rate of SMP increased to £156.66, in line with
the September 2021 CPI rate of 3.1%.</p><p> </p><p>Government already spends approximately
£3 billion a year on maternity payments. Any changes to the rate of SMP would have
to take account of economic circumstances and affordability for taxpayers and could
not be made without consultation with businesses and other stakeholders.</p><p /><p>The
Government has no plans to increase the rate of SMP outside of the annual review of
uprating.</p>
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