§ Mr. Goldingasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the definition of emphysema used by those making awards of industrial injury benefit; how it may be diagnosed; and whether he will make a statement.
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§ Mr. DeanEmphysema is not a disease prescribed under the Industrial Injuries Act and is not defined in the Act, although in certain circumstances the effects of emphysema may be taken into account in assessing the extent of disablement from pneumoconiosis. It may be diagnosed by means of radiological and clinical examinations, including tests of lung function. The pneumoconiosis review being undertaken by the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council includes consideration of what special provision, if any, should be made for disablement due to other respiratory conditions found in the presence of pneumoconiosis in assessing the extent of disablement due to the disease.