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Pneumoconiosis etc. (Workers’ Compensation) (Payment of Claims) (Amendment) Regulations 2008

It was because it was a very clear legal judgment. I have actually read it; we had some representations on the matter, and it was very clear that the House of Lords determined that pleural plaques were not compensable on two grounds—that the condition itself did not create compensable damage; and that the potential stress and anxiety that might flow from the existence of pleural plaques that might be indicative of exposure to asbestos was not compensable under basic provisions in the law. The Government reflected on and accepted that clear judgment. We obviously continue to engage with stakeholders on this and are listening carefully to representations about the matter. In particular, we are exploring how people who have been exposed to asbestos, of which the existence of pleural plaques is indicative, might be supported. We do not intend to override the judgment. The noble Lord, Lord Kirkwood, asked about devolved Administrations. Obviously this is a GB scheme so, so far as there is engagement in Scotland and Wales, we need to make sure that we have a robust system for the whole of Great Britain. I dealt with the point about administrative pressures and indexation. I think that I have dealt with all questions asked by Members of the Committee, although the noble Lord, Lord Skelmersdale, looks as though he is going to prompt me because I have missed one.