Overview

This bill amends the Mesothelioma Act 2014 to add a research supplement to the existing levy on insurers. This supplement will fund research into mesothelioma, a cancer caused by asbestos exposure.

Description

The Mesothelioma (Amendment) Bill adds a new section to the 2014 Act. This new section mandates that regulations concerning the levy on insurers for mesothelioma claims must include a research supplement.

Research Supplement Details

• The supplement will be a percentage (up to 1%) of the existing levy amount.
• Regulations will specify how the supplement is applied, primarily through grants or financial assistance for mesothelioma research.
• The scheme administrator (likely a government body) will manage the supplement, potentially using a third-party body for application processing.
• Funds may be held and invested before allocation.
• The Secretary of State must consult insurers, medical charities, research foundations, and other relevant stakeholders before setting regulations for the supplement.

The bill applies to England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland and comes into force upon passing.

Government Spending

The bill will not directly increase or decrease government spending. Instead, it creates a new funding mechanism for mesothelioma research, diverting a small percentage of existing levy funds. The exact financial impact will depend on the percentage set for the research supplement and the overall size of the levy.

Groups Affected

• Insurers: Will face a slightly increased levy to fund the research supplement.
• Mesothelioma sufferers and their families: May indirectly benefit from improved research leading to better treatments and outcomes.
• Medical charities and research foundations: May receive funding for mesothelioma research.
• Researchers: Could receive grants to conduct research into mesothelioma.

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