HC Deb 17 May 1999 vol 331 cc245-6W
Ms Kelly

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what has been the(a) average length of time between diagnosis and receipt of compensation and (b) the average value of compensation paid for former employees of British Rail who are diagnosed as having (i) mesothelioma, (ii) asbestosis and (iii) primary carcinoma of the lung, related to exposure to asbestos in (1) the North West and (2) England. [84221]

Ms Glenda Jackson

I understand from the British Railways Board that information is not available in a form which can be analysed in the manner requested without disproportionate cost. Since 1991, the Board has settled approximately 500 such claims. Diagnosis may occur before or after a claim is made.