§ Mr. WorthingtonTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what change his Department has made since May 1997 in the provision it makes for those suffering from asbestos-related diseases. [119004]
§ Mr. BayleyNo changes have been made to the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit scheme with regard to asbestos-related diseases specifically since May 1997.
303WIn April 1997 considerable changes were made to these provisions following advice and recommendations from the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council set out in their report "Asbestos Related Diseases" (Cm 3467). These changes were beneficial to claimants and introduced wide occupational coverage in respect of mesothelioma and removed the 90 day waiting period that operates for other diseases and accidents within this benefit scheme. Changes were also made with regard to diffuse pleural thickening, ensuring that benefit could be paid if the thickening affected one lung only, where previously both lungs had to be affected.
Since May 1997 the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council, whose role is to provide expert independent advice, has continued to carefully monitor developments in this field as it does with regard to all occupational diseases.