Faster payouts for asbestos sufferers welcomed
April 4th 2007

Government proposals to provide faster compensation to people diagnosed with the asbestos-related disease mesothelioma, have been widely welcomed. The proposals have been set out by Work and Pensions Secretary John Hutton.

“No amount of money will ever make up for the suffering and loss of individuals and families caused by mesothelioma," said John Hutton, announcing the plan, "but no one should have to worry that they, or their family will have to wait years before they see a penny of compensation – especially as, in many cases, people do not have years to wait.”

He added: “The legislation would mean that, once diagnosed, every sufferer should receive a substantial payment within six weeks of making a claim.”

Currently only people who contract the disease from exposure to asbestos at work are eligible to claim a lump sum from the state.

The proposals would break this occupational link and would mean that, as soon as legislation passes through Parliament, all those with mesothelioma would be eligible for payment, irrespective of their employment status and provided that they have not already received compensation through personal injury claims or against an employer.

These payments could be as early as next year.

The new proposals would provide up-front financial support - within six weeks - to people who were previously not eligible, including those who were:

* Exposed to asbestos from a relative - for example from their overalls

* Exposed to asbestos environmentally - living near a factory using asbestos

* Self-employed.

* Those unable to trace their exposure to asbestos.

The TUC and HSE have jointly produced guidance for safety representatives on managing asbestos and what the law says. It can be found at www.tuc.org.uk/h

For further information, just  click here.

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