§ Mr. CatonTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will make a statement on benefit entitlement for those diagnosed with myasthenia gravis. [188633]
§ Mr. BestTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions if he will make a statement on benefit entitlement for individuals diagnosed with myasthenia gravis. [189132]
§ Maria EagleWe do not pay benefits based on medical diagnosis.
Incapacity benefit is intended to provide a source of income for sick and disabled people of working age who are unable to work.
Entitlement to disability living allowance is based on walking difficulties and/or the need for personal care which results from severe disability. The customer's medical condition is not, necessarily, the key factor. Rather it is the disablement that results from it and the effects of that disablement.
We are ensuring that the benefit system encourages and promotes work where possible. However, we recognise that those with the most severe conditions may never be able to work, and benefits provide security for those for whom work is not an option.