§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many people claimed invalidity benefit as a result of a smoking-related condition in each year since 1997. [178931]
§ Mr. PondThe information is not available. Incapacity benefit is awarded on the basis of the functional effects of disabling conditions, regardless of their cause or of any contributory factors such as smoking. Information about incapacity benefit claimants' smoking habits is not routinely recorded.