MPS express concern over delay in pleural plaques compensation response

A number of MPs have expressed concern over the government's delay in responding to a consultation conducted into the issue of compensation for pleural plaques sufferers.

The consultation was launched in response to a decision made last year by the Law Lords to end payouts for people affected by the condition, which is a form of scarring of the outer lining of the lung caused by previous exposure to the insulating material asbestos.

According to north-east newspaper the Journal, over 100 MPs have signed the motion.

It states: "Now is the time to reverse the Law Lords decision of October 2007 that has deprived pleural plaques sufferers of much needed compensation and prior to the Law Lords decision worked in establishing liability at a stage prior to the onset of a fatal asbestos-related disease."

Among the politicians to have put their names to the petition are Ronnie Campbell, Fraser Kemp, Frank Cook and Stephen Hepburn.