START OF SOUTH AFRICAN ASBESTOS SETTLEMENT TALKS

Early day motion 394, tabled 9 November 2001 by Michael Clapham (Labour). Signed by 50 members.

That this House is pleased to note that Cape plc has now finally decided to enter into talks to discuss compensation for the 7,500 South African asbestos victims; further notes that it was agreed at the Royal Courts of Justice that the lawyers from both parties now have 14 days to engage in constructive dialogue while the case is suspended and that this marks the first real indication that the company is willing to negotiate a settlement; notes there is an urgency because, since Cape's AGM in May 2001, 150 claimants have died; and calls upon Cape plc to take this opportunity to act responsibly in the interests of its former workers and show respect to South African victims and their families by offering a just and equitable settlement.

Signatures by party: Labour 41, Liberal Democrat 4, Labour/Co-operative 3, Plaid Cymru 1, UUP 1.