§ Jeff EnnisTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many applications for compensation186W from former miners for (a) chronic bronchitis and emphysema and (b) vibration white finger have not been allowed since the schemes began; and what the average solicitor's fee charged was for dealing with each of these unsuccessful claims. [137019]
§ Mr. TimmsAs of 26 October 2003, 16,383 respiratory disease claims and 11,096 vibration white finger claims have been denied.
Under the Claims Handling Agreement, agreed with the solicitors representing the claimants, no costs are paid to solicitors where a claim is denied.