MP slams ‘man-made’ asbestos tragedy
ROCHDALE MP Tony Lloyd condemned the ‘man-made tragedy’ of asbestos-related cancer as he addressed a rally in Manchester.
Campaigners from across the world gathered in Sackville Gardens for Action Mesothelioma Day.
Politicians, families and campaigners stood shoulder to shoulder in memory of all those who have lost their lives to the asbestos disease at the commemoration event, hosted by Manchester based charity Asbestos Victims Support.
Mr Lloyd, speaking out about the “injustice” endured by families, said: “Victims of asbestos exposure is a man-made tragedy. I stand in solidarity for all those that are suffering and have died from this cruel illness. There have been too many deaths in Rochdale - where we had one of the first and biggest asbestos companies - and around the world.”
Mr Lloyd added: “Asbestos Victims Support are doing important work raising this issue and leading the campaign for justice for victims and their families across Greater Manchester. There is an injustice here and I will do my part to help in any way I can in Parliament. I fully support calls for more research and better compensation - it is only right. The more we can show and tell the stories of all the innocent lives lost, the greater pressure we can bring to bear for justice.”
As the Observer reported delegates also visited the old Tuners Brothers site in Spodden Valley, once home to the world’s largest asbestos factory.