§ 15. Dr. PalmerTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, if she will make a statement on the legal fees charged to former coal miners who are claiming compensation for industrial illnesses. [143333]
§ Nigel GriffithsThe Department's position on solicitors' or claims handlers' charges is clear: we believe that all the compensation should go to the claimant without anyone taking a slice of it.
I deplore any attempt to charge sick miners or their widows and families for legal or administration expenses, which are covered by the DTI. I am asking the firms involved to reimburse sick miners' widows and families in such cases.
§ 16. Mr. IllsleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations she has received regarding solicitors charging success fees in coal health compensation claims. [143334]
§ Nigel GriffithsMy right hon. Friend and the Prime Minister have received angry representations from hon. Members and others.
I deplore any attempt to charge sick miners or their widows and families for legal or administration expenses that are covered by the DTI. I am asking the firms involved to reimburse sick miners widows and families in such cases.