§ Mr. ByersTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans he has to implement the recommendations of the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council on the occupational deafness disability benefit scheme contained in Cm. 817 and Cm. 1245; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. ScottThe Industrial Injuries Advisory Council's recommendations have been carefully considered. A number of administrative changes have been introduced, and new arrangements for audiometric tests are currently being evaluated. A decision on extending the scheme will be taken once we have the results of this study.
§ Mr. ByersTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what steps he is taking to prevent delays in diagnosing and assessment of deafness claims by war pensioners in the Newcastle area.
§ Miss WiddecombeFollowing a competitive tendering exercise a national contract for the provision of audiological testing will be awarded in May. This will provide a more efficient and speedier service, throughout the country.