Pleural plaques former claimants payments scheme
Pleural plaques are small, localised areas of fibrosis caused by exposure to asbestos fibres, found within the pleura of the lung.
On 17 October 2007, the Law Lords upheld a Court of Appeal decision that the existence of pleural plaques does not constitute actionable or compensatable damage. The courts had previously regarded the existence of plaques themselves as damage and compensation had routinely been paid.
On the basis of medical evidence received during the course of this review, including reports from the Chief Medical Officer for England and Wales and the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council, the government does not consider it appropriate that the Law Lords decision should be overturned.
However, in recognition of the unique circumstances of those who had already begun, but not resolved, a legal claim for compensation before the Law Lords ruling, the government has decided to make one-off payments of £5,000 to people in that category. The scheme will apply in England and Wales.
The Ministry of Justice will be in a position to start accepting claims as soon as possible. Details about how to apply are currently being finalised, but will be made available as soon as possible.
A range of other measures are being taken to support those who have been exposed to asbestos: Government announces measures on asbestos-related illness.
