HC Deb 17 May 2004 vol 421 cc731-2W
Mr. Goodman

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions whether those in receipt of incapacity benefit are registered by ethnic background; and if he will make a statement. [172856]

Maria Eagle

Those in receipt of incapacity benefit are not registered by ethnic background. However, Jobcentre Plus has started to collect information, on a voluntary basis, in areas where customers are required to have a work-focused interview in connection with claims for working-age benefits. This will be extended to other areas as Jobcentre Plus offices, and the necessary information management systems, are rolled out nationally over the next few years.