Diane Sinclair, employee relations advisor for the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, said she was aware of surveys which showed people were more likely to be off sick on a Monday.

BBC: Long weekend 'sickies' uncommon

Mr Evans said while nothing could be done about people off sick with flu for example, stress could be tackled.

BBC: 21,000 teaching days lost to stress in Wales in 2009

Employment and Welfare Reform Minister Stephen Timms MP denies that the one million target will only be reached through a rise in unemployment - that many will simply be shifted off the sick and onto other benefits.

BBC: Jobs needed for 'sick' Britain

If the recommendations are accepted people who are signed off sick would also be put on to Job Seekers' Allowance, instead of Employment Support Allowance, for a period of three months.

BBC: GPs should 'not sign off long-term sick'

Governments would be free to offer new mothers more time off, but would have to pay them at least as much as sick leave.

BBC: EU plans longer maternity leave