Asbestos ruling welcomed

Unions have welcomed a High Court ruling last month that thousands of people with pleural plaques - a calcification of the lungs that can be caused by asbestos exposure - are still entitled to compensation.

Insurers had challenged the right of asbestos-exposed workers to claim compensation for the condition.

On average, 14,000 cases of pleural plaques are reported every year.

Derek Simpson, general secretary of Amicus skilled and professional union, said: "This judgement is good law and good news for thousands of workers. Amicus and its lawyers will continue to ensure that workers suffering from asbestos-related injuries due to the failure of employers to protect them have the right to compensation."