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Tony Blair Comments on Asbestos Compensation Issue

The Prime Minister has spoken out against a decision made by the House of Lords that is set to reduce the amount of compensation received by mesothelioma victims and their families.

Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is an asbestos-related cancer that is almost always fatal, devastating the lives of sufferers and those close to them. It can take decades to develop following exposure to asbestos and it is anticipated that the number of fatalities each year, currently over 1800, will rise for at least the next 10 years.  There are a number of UK support groups available for sufferers and their families.

Most victims of the disease have been exposed to asbestos through their working conditions, due to the negligence of their employers.

House of Lords Decision on Mesothelioma Compensation

A recent appeal heard at the House of Lords concluded with a ruling on 3rd May 2006 that victims would no longer be entitled to full damages in cases where there is more than one negligent employer and at least one of those is either no longer in existence or without traceable insurance.

Change to the Law on Mesothelioma Compensation

Our lawyers were actively involved in a campaign with trade unions, the families of mesothelioma sufferers and asbestos groups, having represented one of the claimants central to the decision. As a result of this campaign, Tony Blair has stated that he intends to overrule the judgement if he can.

When responding to a question at a recent union congress, he replied: “I regret that (House of Lords) Judgment. I’m looking at the moment to see the best opportunity for us to change it. If we can change it, we will. I hope to announce something on this in a couple of weeks”.

It now seems likely that an amendment will be made to the Compensation Bill in order to reverse the ruling.

Industrial Disease Claims

If you or a member of your family has been affected by an asbestos related illness, we may be able to help you. The Legal Line’s specialist lawyers have immense experience in fighting for the rights of the innocent victims of industrial illnesses and have successfully recovered compensation for many people. Contact us on 0800 0328511 or by completing a compensation claim enquiry form online.