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 amends the 2014 Act by introducing a "research supplement" to the levy paid by insurers. This supplement will be a percentage (up to 1%) of the existing levy amount. Regulations will determine the exact percentage and how the funds are allocated. The Secretary of State must consult insurers, medical charities, research foundations, and other relevant stakeholders before setting these regulations. The research supplement will be used to fund mesothelioma research through grants or other financial assistance. The scheme administrator will manage the funds, potentially with the help of an external research funding body. 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 mechanism for generating additional funds for mesothelioma research via a levy on insurers, which are then subsequently distributed in the form of grants. The precise amount is dependent on the percentage set by the regulations under the act.

Groups Affected

• Insurers: Will pay a slightly increased levy (up to 1% more).
• Medical charities and research foundations: May receive funding for mesothelioma research.
• Mesothelioma sufferers and their families: Could benefit indirectly from improved research leading to better treatments and prevention strategies.
• Researchers: May receive grant funding to conduct mesothelioma research.

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