Ministers welcome asbestos compensation ruling

A number of politicians have welcomed a new package of measures designed to benefit victims of asbestos-related health problems.

Under plans laid out by the government, former shipyard and factory workers who have gone on to develop mesothelioma will see their sickness benefits rise above inflation.

This is one of a number of changes being implemented by the Labour administration to assist those whose health has been affected by the insulating material.

It is associated with a range of conditions, including mesothelioma, asbestosis and pleural plaques.

Responding to the developments, minister for the north-east and Newcastle East and Wallsend MP Nick Brown said it was "welcome", the Evening Chronicle reports.

He added: "The victims are concentrated largely in industrial areas like the north-east and prevalent amongst communities such as the one I represent in the east end of Newcastle."

Meanwhile, a joint statement from Blaydon and Jarrow MPs Dave Anderson and Stephen Hepburn suggested that the improvements will make a "huge difference" to asbestos victims.