Calls For Asbestos Loophole To Be Closed

There are calls for a loophole affecting sufferers of an asbestos-related illness to be closed.

At the moment, only minimal compensation can be claimed by sufferers of 'pleural plaques' - benign buildups in the lungs that cause discomfort. Larger payouts can only be sought if the claimant promises not to take any further legal action.

Health researchers fcrom Stirling University are highlighting the disparity, and calling for all asbestos-related illness sufferers to receive equal payouts. Tommy Gorman, from the University’s Occupational and Environmental Health Research Group, says:

"It is perfectly understandable that the victim when faced with such a choice would choose the larger compensation award, but they cannot possibly grasp the potential effects of a more serious illness upon them and their family. The Scottish Parliament has produced vital legislation in recent years to address the devastating impact of asbestos-related conditions and I believe our report provides a compelling argument for the need to move quickly to resolve negative impacts on claimants and their families."

The report will be discussed at a meeting of MSPs from all parties, ministers, groups representing those with asbestos-related diseases, health and safety groups, trade unions and lawyers at the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday 8 September.