Pleural plaques consultation launched

News | HSP
09.07.2008

The Government has launched a consultation on whether people diagnosed with pleural plaques should be offered "no-fault financial support".

The consultation follows a Law Lords ruling last October that people diagnosed with pleural plaques should no longer be able to claim compensation under the civil law of negligence.

The Law Lords' ruling ended a right to claim damages that was established 20 years ago.

Pleural plaques are areas of scarring of the lungs caused by exposure to asbestos. While they do not usually cause any significant symptoms, they are a marker of past exposure and can be a forerunner of more serious conditions, such as asbestosis.

The consultation, launched on 9 July, seeks views on whether changing the law on negligence would be appropriate, and whether and how financial support should be offered to people diagnosed with the condition.

Justice Minister Bridget Prentice MP said, "We understand the concern and anxiety experienced by people who have been exposed to dangerous substances like asbestos, and who have been told they have pleural plaques.

"The Law Lords have made their decision on legal grounds but those with pleural plaques may still need support. We need to find the best way forward to provide that support."

Responses are required by 1 October. The consultation document is available here.