§ Mr. Russell BrownTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what plans the Benefits Agency has to review procedures for assessing applicants for disability benefits for sufferers of CFS/ME. [29917]
§ Maria EagleThe Department for Work and Pensions recognises the chronic fatigue syndromes (including ME) as potentially debilitating illnesses. The rules of disability benefits, and the guidance given to those who make decisions on entitlement, as well as those doctors who assist in gathering evidence and interpreting it, already take account of this.
We have no plans to review current procedures for handling claims for disability benefits specifically for applicants who suffer from chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalitis.