North-east families 'to receive £5k asbestos compensation'

People with close family members who were victim to asbestos-related illnesses in the north-east of England could be set to receive compensation settlements of £5,000.

According to the Shields Gazette, the Ministry of Justice has made a decision to award damages to the loved ones of employees who passed away in South Tyneside due to pleural plaques, an illness which affects the respiratory system and is brought on by exposure to asbestos.

However, the families who made claims for compensation after automatic payments stopped three years ago will still not receive any damages, the news source continued.

Labour MP for the local constituency of Jarrow Stephen Hepburn previously stated this ruling was "unreasonable and unjust" and added that "thankfully" the government has now changed its mind following a campaign conducted by himself, the media and residents of the area.

"It's a great victory for all involved. It was never just about the money, but the principle," he added.

Posted by Patrick White
 

21/12/2010 17:02