HC Deb 18 February 1971 vol 811 cc549-50W
Mr. Mason

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will make a statement on the progress being made by his Industrial Diseases Sub-Committee of the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council on the question of pneumoconiosis review.

Mr. Dean

I understand that the Sub-Committee is at present taking oral evidence.

Mr. Mason

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether in the light of experience and current knowledge, he proposes to make adjustment in the terms of the definition of pneumoconiosis in Section 58(3) of the National Insurance (Industrial Injuries) Act, 1965.

Mr. Dean

The definition of pneumoconiosis is currently under consideration by the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council in connection with their major review of the disease. When the Council reports we will consider what changes, if any, are needed in the light of their recommendations.

Mr. Mason

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what consideration he is giving to making special provisions for disablement due to other respiratory conditions found in the presence of pneumoconiosis and which are to be taken into account when assessing the extent of disablement due to the disease.

Mr. Dean

This must await the report of the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council who are considering the matter in connection with their major review of pneumoconiosis.