John Hutton today gave details of how the system for compensating sufferers of mesothelioma, the debilitating form of lung cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, would be improved and speeded up. After working with key stakeholders, the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions said interim measures to speed up current claims would be put into action and he was determined to put in place a long-term solution. "I am committed to ensuring sufferers of this awful disease, which progresses so rapidly from the time of diagnosis, will get compensation before they die," said Mr Hutton. "There are a series of measures we will put into action straight away, such as clarifying with claims handlers best practice to ensure priority is given to those with mesothelioma.