HC Deb 27 May 2004 vol 421 cc1743-4W
John Mann

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many coal compensation scheme claims have resulted in full and final settlements of less than(a) £1,000 and (b) £500. [176105]

Nigel Griffiths

As of 26 May 2004, the figures are as follows:

Number of settlements less

than £1,000

Of which number of

settlements less than £500
COPD 26,281 11,867
VWF 2,971 301

John Mann

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry how many coal compensation scheme claims have resulted in solicitors being paid more than claimants. [176106]

Nigel Griffiths

As of 26 May 2004, the figures are:

Number of settlements where solicitor costs exceed

damages paid to claimant
COPD 46,768
VWF 2,655

John Mann

To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what representations have been made to her since Easter about the possibility of minimum payments for coal compensation schemes. [176107]

Nigel Griffiths

The Claimants Representative Group advised the judge that they were looking at the possibility of a minimum payment arrangement for respiratory disease claims. The Department has received two letters from the Claimants Representative Group since Easter seeking background information on claims volumes. The subject has also been discussed at the regular Operation and Monitoring meetings between the parties. A formal proposal has not yet been submitted to the Department.