…Mr. Beithasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether the industrial injuries advisory council has completed its review of the schedule of prescribed 749W diseases; and whether there is now any prospect of chronic bronchitis and emphysema being treated as an industrial disease in the coal mining industry.
§ Mr. PrenticeThere is at present in sufficient evidence to justify the prescription of either chronic bronchitis or emphysema for industrial injuiries benefit purposes. Therefore, neither of these conditions is included in the schedule of prescribed disease currently being reviewed by the industrial injuries advisory council. The council is, however, also considering whether to recommend that a system of individual proof should be introduced for claims for industrial injuries benefits. The hon. Member will appreciate that a detailed study of both these complex subjects is required to ensure that the council's recommendations are made in the light of the most up-to-date information and the widest range of expertise available. I understand that the council's consideration of the written evidence is well advanced and it is taking further oral evidence, but is not yet in a position to report.