In October 2007, the House of Lords ruled unanimously that plaques were no longer compensatable.  A Government consultation into a House of Lords ruling on asbestos plaques is due to begin.
 
On the 4th June 2008 Bridget Prentice MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Justice said

“The consultation will review the effect of a House of Lords ruling which brought to an end the right to compensation for pleural plaques which has existed for over 20 years”. 

The consultation will consider options including restoring the right to compensation for pleural plaques.

Pleural plaques are marks on the lung which show that the person has had asbestos exposure and is thus at an increased risk of developing asbestos cancer.  Generally, pleural plaques do not cause physical symptoms but most people who are diagnosed with pleural plaques become anxious. 

Mick Clapham, Barnsley West and Penistone MP requested the Law Lords’ decision be reversed.  He stated that this was the best and cleanest way forward. 

Undoubtedly, the insurance industry will be opposed to such a change. 

If you wish to be involved in the consultation process, responses must be made by the 1st October 2008.

Below are links to the pleural plaques consultation.

http://www.justice.gov.uk/docs/cp1408-questions.doc
http://www.justice.gov.uk/docs/cp1408.pdf

This article was prepared by:-

Ruth Davies
John Pickering and Partners LLP
20 Clare Road
Halifax  HX1 2HX

Tele: 01422 345535
Fax: 01422 438500
Email: rd@johnpickering.co.uk