John Battle MP still championing cause for mesothelioma victims

John Battle MP for Leeds West has contacted the DSS to ask them to re-issue leaflet N1272, “If you have a disease because of working with asbestos in your job. Disablement Benefit for Asbestos Related Prescribed Diseases.

Mr Battle was approached by the Occupational and Environmental Diseases Association who are very concerned that the leaflet has been withdrawn although both the Health and Safety Executive and Industrial Injuries Advisory Council agree that asbestos-related deaths may increase from 3,000 to 10,000 a year.

Mr Battle says

"I will certainly contact the DSS as the MP who championed the mesothelioma victims in Armley over a number of years. In the Armley cases mesothelioma was contacted by people who lived near, or worked at the Roberts factory in the Aviary area of Armley.

Mesothelioma is no longer affecting only those who have worked in the asbestos manufacturing, asbestos insulation, ship building and ship repair industries. Many people are affected because they disturbed asbestos (thousands of tonnes have been used in buildings over the years) or were in the vicinity during maintenance, repair and refurbishment work.

It is vital that victims of mesothelioma have access to as much information as possible when faced with this awful disease. I will certainly urge my colleagues at the DSS to re-issue the leaflet that gives important information about financial support for sufferers."

Wortley Web - 7th August 2000