Asbestos-related illness sufferers 'could get compensation'

It is not out of the question that sufferers of the asbestos-related illness pleural plaques will receive compensation.

This is according to new justice minister Jonathan Djanogly, who said that while under current medical evidence they will not be eligible for damages, this may change.

He made his comments in the House of Commons in response to remarks by Jarrow Labour MP Stephen Hepburn, who believes those with the condition should receive money.

Mr Djanogly said: "Of course, if the situation were to change, we would look at it again."

He added that if new evidence surfaces that suggests the disease - which is a form of scarring of the outer lining of the lungs - is an "actionable cause" and counts as "compensatable damage", it will be open to claimants to pursue cash.

As well as pleural plaques, exposure to asbestos is associated with conditions such as the cancer mesothelioma and asbestosis.

Posted by Craig Williams

22/06/2010 16:06