Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, if his Department will take steps to reduce the number of forms associated with asbestos-related benefits.

Under the Industrial Injuries Scheme people suffering from various dust-related diseases, including asbestos, may be able to receive a weekly disablement benefit, and can also apply for a lump sum payment. The Government believes this is the right approach, recognising a range of different circumstances, and taking account of life expectancy.

The Department is currently developing an online service for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit. Initially this is for accident claims but it is intended to include industrial diseases at a later stage, providing service improvements and reducing the number of forms.