Almost two thirds of UK finance directors do not trust the sicknotes presented by their employees, according to new research by Reed Accountancy.

Ian Rae, finance director of Penlon, warned the system itself was limited: "A doctor's sick note only certifies that the employee has asked for one," he said.

Another director, who asked to remain anonymous said: "I would not trust a GP as far as he could dangle his stethoscope. Sick notes should be strictly monitored."

Doctors issuing sick notes were identified as one of the main reasons why employers are suspicious of employees absences.

Said one director (who not surprisingly, also wished to remain anonymous): "GPs give in too easily. I have seen staff produce sick notes from their GPs for illnesses that cannot seriously merit a day off."

However, Chris Burhop, financial director for BFF Nonwovens Ltd was more understanding of a GP's position. He said: "Faced with a worker demanding a sick note, and with his own surgery quotas, throughput and income to consider, what would you do in a doctor's position?

"a) Argue the toss or b) write the note?" he said.