HC Deb 22 June 1959 vol 607 cc837-8
10. Mr. Hastings

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance whether he is aware that the percentage of acceptances for pneumoconiosis compensation backed by medical certificates among miners varies greatly in different parts of the country; and what is the reason for this.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

It is impossible within the reasonable compass of a reply to a Parliamentary Question to deal comprehensively with the large number of factors which seem likely to have some relevance to the matter. These, however, include the different consciousness of risk and consequent frequency of application in different coalfields, variations in the type of coal and conditions in pits, and, more recently, the progress of the National Coal Board's programme of X-ray examination.

Mr. Hastings

May I ask the Minister whether the admitted operations he has mentioned do not suggest that there is a need for a reconsideration of standards? In view of the admitted differences in different areas, could not some more unified standard be maintained?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I do not altogether agree with the hon. Gentleman, because it is clear from the circumstances some of which are outlined in my Answer, that there are factors which would cause the proportions and figures to vary from area to area. I do not think one can draw any further deduction as a result of that.

11. Mr. Hastings

asked the Minister of Pensions and National Insurance whether, in view of the high incidence of respiratory disease in miners, he will insist on a general medical examination and test of respiratory function as well as an X-ray examination in all those making an initial claim for compensation.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

As the hon. Member is, I am sure, aware, there is a proper opportunity for clinical examination of all claimants for benefit for penumoconiosis whenever it is needed.

Mr. Hastings

Will not the Minister arrange that in every initial case where compensation for removal from the industry is demanded there should be a thorough examination, and not only an X-ray examination, so that the individuals who really need removal from the industry may be picked out at once and given a chance to establish themselves in some other occupation? The general medical view is that by X-ray examination alone all the facts are not available.

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I have seen the process of X-ray examination in South Wales and the research work done at Llandough, as I know the hon. Gentleman has, and it is extremely interesting. The position is that a clinical examination takes place wherever X-ray photographs suggest that it is necessary, and in the case of a claim being rejected on X-ray examination alone the claimant can obtain a clinical examination by submitting an appeal.