STRETFORD and Urmston MP Kate Green, stood up for the victims of mesothelioma, a form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, in Parliament recently.

Mesothelioma is a long-tail disease – which means people exposed to asbestos decades ago are only now finding out the consequences. Following diagnosis, most victims have only about nine months to live.

The Mesothelioma Bill, which aims to secure compensation for mesothelioma sufferers and their families, is now passing through the House of Commons, and it is hoped it will become law next year.

The Bill would provide a system to make payments to people with the disease who are unable to trace - and bring a claim for damages against - their employer or their Employer’s Liability insurer.

However, under the Government’s proposed payment system, successful applicants will only receive 75 per cent of the average compensation of claimants who are able to pursue successful claims where an employer or insurer can be traced.

Ms Green said: “Although I support the Mesothelioma Bill in principle, in its current form it does not go far enough in bringing the necessary justice for victims.

“I will continue to fight for a fair deal for mesothelioma sufferers and their families, and will be working with my colleagues in parliament to try to improve this Bill.”