KATE Green, MP for Stretford & Urmston stood up for the victims of mesothelioma, a form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, in Parliament.

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

Approximately 2,000 people are diagnosed with the disease each year, and many victims live in former industrial areas such as Manchester.

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.

Kate 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.

“Victims have been left for years without any compensation, while the insurance industry has continued to benefit from billions of pounds in premiums – yet this Bill continues to short change victims, while giving a £17 million government handout to the insurance industry.”