§ Mr. VazTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans she has to review the operation of the Benefits Agency Medical Services(a) generally and (b) in respect of sufferers of ME. [18315]
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§ Mr. Keith BradleyA project is currently being undertaken to consider transferring the work of the Benefits Agency Medical Services to the private sector. Contractorisation could provide an opportunity to modernise working practices and provide a better value to the taxpayer and better service to people claiming benefits. This supports our commitment to modernise the delivery of Social Security to make it better, simpler and more efficient.
We are looking at all aspects of provision for sick and disabled people as part of our comprehensive spending review. We recognise that people with fluctuating conditions, such as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, have particular needs and will be considering what changes are necessary to current procedures to ensure they are treated sensitively and fairly.