Pleural plaques are a condition where the outside walls of the lungs become thickened and scarred from asbestos exposure. Although pleural plaques are generally symptomless, this does not prevent people with the condition from worrying about the risks of future asbestos-related problems. Until 2006, compensation was payable for this condition but that changed with a Court of Appeal decision (upheld by the House of Lords) which meant that pleural plaques victims can no longer recover compensation.

North of the border, Parliament decided to right this wrong for asbestos victims and introduced legislation to reverse the situation. The insurance industry has contested this and yesterday a second appeal by them to the Court of Sessions was unsuccessful. They have no indicated that they will take their arguments to the Supreme Court.

Stephen Hattersley of Ison Harrison Solicitors said of their decision,

“It is disappointing but unsurprising that the insurance industry continue with their unwavering efforts to deny asbestos victims compensation. Having taken the premiums from companies to pay for these potential liabilities, they prefer to take all measure possible to resist paying compensation. We can only hope that their further shabby efforts continue to be rebuffed”.