PM considers fast-tracking payments for mesothelioma sufferers

The prime minister pledged today to consider fast-tracking compensation payments for mesothelioma sufferers.

Ministers announced yesterday that they will change compensation laws after a House of Lords ruling prevented thousands of victims of the asbestos-related cancer receiving a full pay-out.

A legal victory by the insurance industry last month made it harder for victims of mesothelioma, and bereaved relatives, to bring a successful case if they had been employed by more than one company.

The government will now amend the compensation bill - currently going through parliament - to improve the system.

At question time today, Mr Blair said: "We are well aware of the serious concern about this and as a result of it there will be an amendment to the compensation bill which will, in effect, reverse that ruling."

To Labour cheers, he added: "That is extremely important because there are many thousands of people who otherwise would suffer quite unnecessarily."

Mr Blair continued: "Along with what we did over many years for miners' compensation, it is an indication that we recognise there are people who worked very hard in this country who suffered grave and debilitating illnesses as a result and it is right that we stand by them and protect them."

Labour's Michael Clapham urged Mr Blair to introduce a fast-track scheme to make speedy payments to sufferers and their families.

Mr Blair replied: "I won't give a reply straight away but I will look at it carefully and get back in touch with you."