Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what plans he has to safeguard sensitive personal data potentially discussed in the proposed new health and work conversation for employment and support allowance claimants; and if he will make a statement.

Claimants will not be required to disclose sensitive personal data as part of the (HWC). The paperwork from the HWC is taken away by the claimant at the end of the conversation. DWP staff will update records to show that the HWC has taken place, record any voluntary actions and any support offered by DWP.

The Department treats the protection of sensitive personal data extremely seriously and safeguards such data in compliance with the Data Protection Act and in accordance with Departmental security policies and standards;