Written question asked by Martin Salter (Labour) on Tuesday, 12 October 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 21 October 2004. It was answered by Jane Kennedy (Labour) on Thursday, 21 October 2004 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.

Dept for Work and Pensions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what plans the Government has to extend asbestos industrial injury benefit to sufferers who have come into contact with asbestos via a family member working in an industrial environment; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Mr. Salter: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what plans the Government have to extend asbestos industrial injury benefit to sufferers who have come into contact with asbestos via a family member working in an industrial environment; and if he will make a statement. [191795] Jane Kennedy: The statutory provisions of the Industrial Injuries scheme provide benefits to employed earners only where an illness or injury is due to their occupation. There are no plans to extend the scope of the Industrial Injuries scheme to the family members of those diagnosed with asbestosis or to people who have been exposed to asbestos outside of their work.

Secondary information