Written question asked by Countess of Mar (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Hunt of Kings Heath (Labour) on Thursday, 17 November 2005.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Question: Whether they have made any assessment of which employers may be prepared to employ individuals with a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) who have been deemed to be fit for work by Department of Work and Pensions medical examiners.

Answer: The Government have made no assessment of which employers may be prepared to employ individuals with a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) who have been deemed to be fit for work by Department of Work and Pensions medical examiners.The personal capability assessment (PCA) objectively evaluates the extent to which a person is capable of carrying out specific every-day activities which relate generally to the ability to work. The activities cover physical, sensory and mental functions. The assessment measures the disabling effects of a person’s medical condition rather than the presence of a particular medical condition.The PCA is not a snapshot of ability on any one day and takes account of the likely effects of fluctuating symptoms to ensure that the determination is not based on an unrepresentative day but fully reflects any disability over a period of time.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 2153; 675 c159WA
Session: 2005-06
Subjects: Disability Benefits rules ME/CFS Employment Incapacity benefit Medical examinations Social security benefits
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk