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date: 13 March 2007

embargo: For immediate release

TUC welcomes speedier payments for asbestos compensation

Welcoming new Government proposals that will speed up the payment of compensation to the people suffering from mesothelioma, TUC General Secretary Brendan Barber said:

'People who have worked with asbestos and who, as a result, are suffering from mesothelioma don't have time on their side so the Government is to be congratulated for ensuring that the victims of this terrible disease get quicker access to justice and compensation.

'Although it can take 40 years after asbestos exposure for mesothelioma to develop, once it has got a hold on a victim's lungs, death comes quickly. Mesothelioma victims will be relieved to learn that they won't have to wait long for compensation, and that their families will be provided for after their deaths.'

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Press release (300 words) issued 13 Mar 2007