Have a question? Call us on 0800 1979 345
This article was published on April 21st, 2016
We reported earlier in February about an ex Royal Navy engineer who had made a claim against the MOD after he had been diagnosed with a terminal lung condition called Mesothelioma in November 2015. The case was of interest as the claim did not comply with the MODs cut off date which prevented claims made which were diagnosed before the 16th December 2015.
The 74-year-old had been in the Royal Navy between 1958 to 1963 and had served on the HMS Trafalgar. Having been diagnosed outside of the cut-off date, the vet was worried his claim would be thrown out however the law has been changed allowing him to receive a compensation lump sum of £140,000.
The MOD issued a statement saying: “On 16 December 2015, the MoD changed the rules to allow veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma on or after that date to have the choice between a one-off, tax-free lump sum or regular, smaller payments.
“The department has now extended the eligibility for the lump sums to those diagnosed before that date.”
The veteran is delighted and welcomes the change of policy by the MoD.
“This news is marvellous and I could not have wished for better. To know that my three sons and their families will benefit from the effort that has gone into getting this unfortunate issue resolved is very satisfying,”
The Defence minister said: “It is right that we do more to support veterans affected by this condition – it’s part of our commitment to our Armed Forces. This change will give them more choice and control.”
The director general of the Royal British Legion, said: “The Government has done the right thing and we appreciate the effort that has gone into accommodating the 60 people who were missing out.”
Companies and institutions whether they are public or private have a duty of care to ensure their employees are not unduly exposed to dangerous or harmful substances. Whilst asbestos is not used anymore, there is still a lot of it about and it should be handled with care whether you are working close to it or removing it. If you are diagnosed with a condition or illness relating to exposure to a dangerous substance then you may be entitled to compensation
Speak to one of our specialist solicitors who will listen to your individual case and handle every aspect of your compensation claim, providing the support and expertise you deserve. We offer a free initial interview in order to review your specific circumstances and assess the viability of your personal injury claim.
To speak to one of our specialist team call us now on FREEPHONE 0800 1979 345, or complete our simple enquiry form and we can call you back at a time to suit you.