HC Deb 03 November 1998 vol 318 cc509-10W
Mr. Dalyell

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps his Department has taken to ensure that trade unions are fully consulted in compensation negotiations for Scottish miners for (a) occupational respiratory diseases and (b) vibration white finger. [57577]

Mr. Battle

We have been keen at every stage to consult with all appropriate bodies and their agents, including the relevant trade unions, in negotiations relating to claims for compensation by miners throughout the United Kingdom, including Scotland, in respect of occupational respiratory diseases and vibration white finger. The solicitors acting on behalf of the National Union of Mineworkers (Scotland Area) have had regular communications from our claims handling agents, IRISC. This is in addition to the information which we understand those solicitors have received from plaintiffs organisations and Steering Groups in England and Wales who are meeting direct with my officials and IRISC on a regular basis.

Mr. Dalyell

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps his Department has taken to(a) supervise, (b) monitor and (c) facilitate negotiations relating to compensation for Scottish miners for (i) occupational respiratory disease and (ii) vibration white finger. [57576]

Mr. Battle

We have, following the recent test case litigation, in England and Wales, in relation to both occupational respiratory disease and vibration white finger, been closely and continuously involved with our claims handling agents, IRISC, in respect of a broad range of complex medical and legal issues arising out of the respective judgments, in relation to claims submitted on behalf of not just English and Welsh claimants but also Scottish claimants. We have instructed our Scottish solicitors to represent our interests in relation to Scottish claims. They and IRISC have been instructed to keep the National Union of Mineworkers (Scotland Area) fully informed of the progress of the negotiations in England and Wales. The intention is to secure as quickly as possible efficient handling arrangements for the prompt, consistent and fair resolution of claims submitted on behalf of all miners in Scotland, England and Wales.