Prime Minister's question asked in the House of Commons, by Michael Clapham (Labour). It was answered on Wednesday, 17 March 2010 on behalf of the Prime Minister.

Engagements

Question: May I take this opportunity to thank the Government for their recent series of changes to the way in which we will be dealing with asbestos-related diseases? Many of the victims will be grateful for the action that the Government have taken. Will the Prime Minister overturn the Law Lords' decision on pleural plaques when new medical evidence becomes available to him as Prime Minister after the next election?

Answer: If medical evidence were to become available, we would obviously reassess the situation; I give my hon. Friend that assurance. At the same time, he should know that the Justice Secretary announced a range of measures which provide real benefits for people with asbestos-related disease. These include a system of fixed payments for individuals and the creation of an employers' liability tracing office. In addition, the Government have confirmed their commitment to expand medical research in one of the most difficult areas, where lives are so often, sadly, lost. I assure my hon. Friend that if new evidence becomes available we will re-examine the situation.

Secondary information