Fairer time limits for mesothelioma patients
Plans to clarify when legal time limit begins for asbestos patients seeking compensation.
People diagnosed with mesothelioma will have fairer access to compensation under legislation to be brought forward this year following calls from campaigners.
The law will clarify when the three-year time limit for raising a claim begins, addressing a longstanding problem where the clock can run out before a patient even knows they have the disease.
The legislation will give effect to recommendations from the Scottish Law Commission for reform of the law of limitation in relation to certain asbestos-related situations.
Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos. Over 2,700 people are diagnosed with the disease each year in the UK, including around 200 in Scotland.
After confirming in Parliament, Community Care Minister Alison Thewliss said:
"Mesothelioma is a devastating disease and those affected deserve a fair opportunity to seek justice.
"The current law on time limits can create real difficulties for people diagnosed with mesothelioma - potentially leaving them unable to seek a legal remedy through no fault of their own.
“I am pleased to confirm that the Scottish Government will introduce legislation this year to address this so people with mesothelioma can take legal action."