§ Jeff EnnisTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how much has been spent on the coal health compensation schemes; and what percentage of the total has gone to(a) claimants, (b) solicitors and (c) other organisations. [134398]
§ Nigel GriffithsTo date, the total amount spent in respect of the respiratory disease and vibration white finger (VWF) schemes is £2.2 billion. 77 per cent. of the total spent has been paid as compensation to the claimants, 10 per cent. has been paid in solicitors' costs and 13 per cent. to contractors.
Respiratory disease and vibration white finger Percentage £ million 77 1.694 10 220 13 286
§ Jeff EnnisTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many former miners have received a final settlement of less than £200 in compensation for(a) chronic bronchitis emphysema and (b) vibration white finger; and what the average fees paid (i) to solicitors and (ii) for medical examinations have been for processing these claims. [134399]
§ Nigel GriffithsThe figures are as follows:
COPD VWF Settlements of less than £200 3,162 10 Average fee to solicitors £2,143 £465 Medical assessments: £865 Live respiratory including record collection and lung function testing.
£571 deceased including record collection.
Vibration white finger £190 (Live only).