§ 11. Mr. Fenner Brockwayasked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance how far the terms of reference of the committee under the chairmanship of Mr. F. W. Beney, Q.C., include consideration of additions to the list of prescribed diseases contained in the regulations made under Section 55 (2) of the Industrial Injuries Act.
§ Mr. TurtonIt is for the Committee to interpret their terms of reference, but I understand that they have made it known that they do not regard their terms of reference as requiring them to consider specific alterations or additions to the list of prescribed diseases.
§ Mr. BrockwayIs the hon. Gentleman aware that when I wrote to his right hon. Friend about Dupuytren's contracture he referred me to this Committee, and that I now have in my hand a letter which indicates that the terms of reference do not include additions, although they will have such problems in mind? In view of this fact, will the Minister ensure that diseases from which workers are suffering as a result of industry will be considered?
§ Mr. TurtonIt is quite true that the Committee will not be examining specific additions, but they will be examining the whole position generally, and it is for that reason that my right hon. Friend referred the hon. Gentleman by letter to that Committee. On the question of specific additions, that is a matter for the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council, and when my right hon. Friend is satisfied that there is a case for adding a particular disease he asks the Council to give him advice on that point. Those are the mechanics.