HC Deb 02 April 1998 vol 309 cc673-4W
Dr. Godman

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what was the total value of benefits, allowances and other payments made to those suffering from asbestosis-related diseases in each of the past three years; and if she will make a statement. [36741]

Mr. Denham

The information is not available in the format requested. Information is available only in respect of certain diseases for which Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit can be paid. These diseases are Diffuse Mesothelioma (prescribed disease D3), Carcinoma of the lung (prescribed disease D8) and Diffuse Pleural Thickening (prescribed disease D9).

The expenditure of Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit for the three asbestos-related diseases above is estimated at £3.826 million for 1994/95; £5.593 million for 1995/96 and £5.991 million for 1996/97.

Notes:

  1. 1. These figures have been based on a 10 per cent. sample of Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit assessments in Great Britain, including an adjustment for assessments recorded in the following year.
  2. 2. Sufferers from asbestosis may get benefit in respect of prescribed disease DI (Pneumoconiosis), but information is not collected separately for the different conditions covered by the term pneumoconiosis.
  3. 3. No information is available on people who are receiving other benefits and who suffer from asbestos related diseases.