date: 17 July 2006

embargo: For immediate release

TUC welcomes reversal of Law Lords asbestos decision

The TUC today (Monday) warmly welcomed the Government's decision to reverse the effects of a recent House of Lords ruling that would have deprived hundreds of victims of asbestos and their dependants from their entitlement to full compensation.

Commenting on the decision to amend the Compensation Bill during its report stage to allow victims of mesothelioma to claim full damages, TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said: "The Government is to be applauded for bringing forward this amendment so quickly. They have taken decisive action to help protect one of the most vulnerable groups in society.

'While no amount of compensation will ever make up for the loss of a loved one from this dreadful disease, at least those who do make a successful claim against their employer will know that any settlement will not be reduced because one or more of their previous employers cannot be traced.'

Back in May, the TUC had expressed disappointment at a House of Lords ruling which reduced the compensation received by two widows - Sylvia Barker and Mary Murray - whose husbands died from mesothelioma as a result of coming into contact with asbestos at work.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

- All TUC press releases can be found at www.tuc.org.uk

Contacts:

Media enquiries: Liz Chinchen T: 020 7467 1248; M: 07778 158175; E: media@tuc.org.uk

Press release (300 words) issued 17 Jul 2006