Advocates for asbestos sufferers in Scotland are welcoming a new bill introduced to the House of Lords yesterday, overturning a previous House ruling which stated that those suffering from pleural plaques due to asbestos exposure could not receive compensation.

The bill, however, angered insurance companies and business groups who believe the condition is, in itself, harmless, notes an article in The Herald. However, pleural plaques can serve as a warning that more serious asbestos diseases may eventually develop.

Fergus Ewing, Minister for Community Safety, said: “Industries such as shipbuilding and construction contributed to our nation’s wealth in the past. Sadly, however, these industries have also given many Scots a legacy which still impacts on their lives today through exposure to asbestos. It is, therefore, right and proper that we should not turn our back on these people.”

Harry McCluskey, Secretary of Clydeside Action on Asbestos, agreed. “This charity is delighted that the minister has acted with speed and efficiency,” he stated.

However, Nick Starling of the Association of British Insurance adamantly disagreed with the popular opinion. “To compensate for pleural plaques would fly in the face of accepted medical opinion, the law lords’ ruling, and common sense,” he told the House of Lords.

Iain Ferguson of the Confederation of British Industry in Scotland also said they were “fundamentally opposed” to the bill.

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