§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what guidance applies to the award of invalidity benefits to people who have undergone laryngectomies and tracheotomies. [39680]
§ Mr. Andrew MitchellThe administration of Social Security benefit is a matter for Mr. Peter Mathison, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency. He will write to the hon. Member with such information as is available.
Letter from Peter Mathison to Mr. Jim Cunnigham, dated 3 November 1995:
The Secretary of State for Social Security has asked me to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about what guidance applies to the award of invalidity benefits to people who have undergone laryngectomies and tracheotomy.
Invalidity Benefit and Sickness Benefit were replaced by Incapacity Benefit with effect from 13 April 1995. The Adjudication Officers Guide is available to Adjudication Officers to assist them in reaching a decision on benefit entitlement. In addition, they have access to the Medical Advisors Guide and the Background Information to Incapacity for Work Guide which provide background information on certain medical conditions. No specific guidance is given to Adjudication Officers awarding benefits to people who have undergone laryngectomies and tracheotomy.
Factors such as breathlessness and fatigue are taken into account in deciding on the appropriate level of limitations for every activity if a person is assessed under the functional All Work Test.
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