Queen’s Speech – Mesothelioma Bill disappoints asbestos victims

The Mesothelioma Bill in the Queen’s Speech 8 May 2013 provides for a payment to sufferers of the asbestos cancer, mesothelioma, from an insurer-funded scheme in cases where negligent exposure to asbestos is proved but the insurer of a defunct company cannot be traced.

Asbestos victims caution against claims that this is an act of generosity by insurers and a great government deal for asbestos victims.

Tony Whitston, Forum Chairman says: “What appears to be a great deal brokered by government, and costing the insurance industry a small fortune, is in reality something entirely different.

"This scheme excludes 50% of asbestos victims, pays ‘average’ compensation only to victims dying from the cancer mesothelioma and then slashes average compensation by 30%. This scheme is not what we expected.

"It was presented as a fait accompli to asbestos victims and saves the insurance industry a small fortune at huge cost to asbestos victims. The Bill needs to be unpicked and repackaged if the victims’ best interests are going to be truly at its heart.”

Jason Addy of the Save Spodden Valley campaign added: "Time and time again it is always those who are harmed by asbestos that pay the ultimate price.

"In years gone by it was the asbestos industry itself that benefited from weak regulation as a result of sinister political lobbying. Today we see a Bill proposed in the Queen's Speech that does not protect all victims of asbestos cancer. It is the financial industry who will ultimately benefit. It appears their furtive lobbying has paid off - at the expense of the most vulnerable.

"I sincerely hope that Parliamentarians will look deep into their consciences to make amendments to this Bill before it becomes law.

"Asbestos cancer should not be political - and MPs from all over the UK - irrespective of party - will witness the devastating effect that asbestos has had on their constituents."