§ Mr. HinchliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what plans she has to review the all work test for incapacity benefit. [12488]
§ Mr. DenhamWe are reviewing all aspects of the social security system. We will assess whether sickness and disability benefits are consistent with our overall aims to encourage work, savings and honesty. A key aim is to help people focus on their capacity for work rather than their disability and provide a climate which will help them achieve independence and play a fuller part in society.
As part of this we will be looking at a number of eligibility issues including those surrounding the all work test, and will be seeking to ensure the test provides a fair assessment of incapacity for benefit purposes.