The MP for Keighley has supported a campaign to help people who have arthritis return to or stay in employment.
Kris Hopkins attended a reception in Westminster to find out more about arthritis and about Arthritis Research UK’s Work Matters to Me initiative.
The charity has argued that what it calls the "Arthritis employment gap" is considerable, with the employment rate amongst people with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions 20 per cent lower than amongst people with no condition or disability.
Mr Hopkins said: “The ability to work is something that can be taken for granted but, for people living with arthritis, it can often be a challenge. I commend Arthritis Research UK on their campaign, and for placing the vital important issues it raises on the agenda.