Can an employer ask to see my medical records?

[NemLou]

Since October I have been in a bit of a fight with proving why I’ve had time off work. I told them months ago that I am in receipt of PIP (personal independence payments) as I am now classed as disabled, I let them know what my issues were and that was that until I had-quote- too much time off sick. I cannot recall having extensive amounts of time off but I have had a few flare ups within the past six months which resulted in me having some time off. Back in October, I was given a disciplinary due to the amount of time off. I took my PIP letter with me to show that I am disabled and this is why I’ve had time off. My employer said it wasn’t enough proof and to get a doctors note and a doctors letter. So I did. I paid for a doctors letter and had to have a follow up meeting with my employer. They said, again, that it wasn’t enough proof and that they will need to look at my medical records. I have been nothing but transparent with them about my struggles with my pain and so I said that I would sign a letter to my doctor to request this. The letter has not yet been produced so I’ve not signed it or sent it off. I’ve been told that they have no right to see my records as I have provided ample proof already. I’ve also been told employers can only see records after you have been absent for six months. I would say I’ve had a total of 3-4 weeks off work over the year, my previous employer never treated me this way and I had more time off whilst working there! I feel like they do not believe a word I’ve said or any of the documents I’ve provided. What should I do? Can they legally see my records? What if I say they can’t have them?