MP Urges Miners to Claim Under New Scheme

Frank Roy MP today welcomed the announcement that from this week thousands of coal miners suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee, sometimes referred to as " miners' knee", will be able to claim Industrail Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB)

Frank joined Yvette Cooper MP, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, in urging claimants to go directly to Jobcentre Plus for help their claims and to avoid paying for solicitors.

Frank Roy MP said, " this is a very welcome step - I want to make sure everyone eligible in the Motherwell and Wishaw constituency knows how to claim and receives the money that they are entitled to."

Yvette Cooper said " It is only right that this help should be available to coal miners who have worked hard all their lives and are now suffering from this painful condition."

"It is also vital people understand they can claim direct through Jobcentre Plus and do not need to pay for the services of solicitors.  This will ensure they get all the money they are entitled to."

"To avoid people contacting solicitors unnecessarily, we deliberately started accepting claims in advance of today and we are delighted that several thousands have already applied."

ENDS