Mesothelioma Scheme Announced - Update

Details Announced of Improvements to
Mesothelioma Compensation System
DWP Press Release
20 July 2006
John Hutton today gave details of how the system for compensating
sufferers of mesothelioma, the debilitating form of lung cancer
caused by exposure to asbestos, would be improved and speeded up.
After working with key stakeholders, the Secretary of State for
Work and Pensions said interim measures to speed up current claims
would be put into action and he was determined to put in place a
long-term solution.
"I am committed to ensuring sufferers of this awful disease, which
progresses so rapidly from the time of diagnosis, will get
compensation before they die," said Mr Hutton.

Government to Act on Mesothelioma Claims
DCA Press Release
20 June 2006
I intend to bring forward an amendment to the Compensation Bill to
provide that in these cases negligent employers should be jointly
and severally liable, so that the claimant can recover full
compensation from any relevant employer. It would then be open to
that employer to seek a contribution to the damages awarded from
other negligent employers.