MPs vow support for mesothelioma sufferers

Members of parliament have vowed support for a campaign for better compensation for sufferers of the asbestos cancer mesothelioma.

Members of parliament have vowed support for a campaign for better compensation for sufferers of the asbestos cancer mesothelioma. The members of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Occupational Safety and Health's asbestos sub-committee made the promise after watching a short film calling on the government to amend the law on government asbestos payouts. The film features representatives of the North East Mesothelioma Self Help Group saying bereavement compensation paid to families of mesothelioma victims in England and Wales should be increased so they come into line with payments currently made in Scotland, where families can receive tens of thousands of pounds more. Group founder Chris Knighton said: 'The film really caught the attention of the MPs and brought home to them how the difference in compensation in England and Wales compared to Scotland affects people. Our members feel very strongly about this injustice.' She added: 'We are pleased the MPs are now going to write to the Ministry of Justice and we hope as a result we will see a change in the law.' Ian McFall from Thompsons Solicitors said: '£10,000 is a derisory sum for the grief caused by the death of a close family member. Whole families suffer terribly when they lose a loved one to mesothelioma. They carry the emotional burden with them the rest of their lives.'