HC Deb 30 January 1987 vol 109 cc443-4W
Ms. Richardson

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received about the high incidence of leukaemia in children in the parishes of Aldermaston, Tadley, Mortimer and Burghfield; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Currie

We have received representations as to the allegedly high incidence of childhood leukaemia in the vicinity of Aldermaston and Burghfield from a number of local authorities in or adjacent to this area and from individuals.

My noble Friend met a delegation from Berkshire county council on 26 January to discuss this matter.

Name of DHSS local office Average clearance time (in days)
City 4
Edge Hill 11
Garston 5
Norris Green 3
Toxteth 3
West Derby 5

Mr. Iain Mills

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will publish the number of claimants in (a) 1984, (b) 1985 and (c) 1986 processed by the Department of Health and Social Security office at 2,104 Coventry road, Sheldon, Birmingham in total; and if he will break this figure down to show the number resident in (i) Chelmsley Wood (ii) Ford Bridge (iii) Kingshurst (iv) Bicken Hill and (v) Castle Bromwich.

Mr. Lyell

Information is not available in the form requested. The number of claims dealt with by the Department's South Yardley local office is shown in the table. Figures are available only on the basis of statistical years which run from April to April. Figures for supplementary benefit show the number of decisions made in each period, figures for other benefits show the number of claims received. A breakdown of these figures into separate districts is not available.

Ms. Richardson

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services when the inquiry set up to advise the Government on the incidence of leukemia in the parishes adjacent to the atomic weapons research establishment at Aldermaston will make its report; and if he will make a statement.

Mrs. Currie

Allegations of a raised incidence of leukaemia in the vicinity of AWRE Aldermaston and ROF Burghfield were referred to the Government's independent advisory committee, COMARE (Committee on Medical Aspects of Radiation in the Environment). COMARE is expected to report in the latter half of 1987.