Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what plans he has to review the 10-year rule with respect to the prescription for osteoarthritis of the knee in former miners; and if he will make a statement.

There are no current plans to review the ’10 year rule’ with respect to the prescription for osteoarthritis of the knee for specific mining occupations.

I am advised on matters relating to the Industrial Injuries Scheme by the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council (IIAC). IIAC keeps all occupational diseases under continuous review, including osteoarthritis of the knee, and is always ready to receive and consider robust scientific evidence from any source.