§ Mr. Bill O'BrienTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what representations she has received on changes to the procedure for DSS medical examinations for claimants; and if she will make a statement. [4357]
§ Mr. FieldI have received a number of representations about DSS medical assessments from a number of groups representing sick and disabled people, other interested organisations and DSS staff representatives, as part of our general review of Social Security provision we will be looking at a number of eligibility issues including the requirements for medical assessment for benefit purposes. Key priorities will be to ensure that procedures for determining entitlement are fair and that claimants receive an efficient and high quality service and that taxpayers' funds are fully protected.