THE Scottish Government spokeswoman's statement on the Scottish Civil Courts Reform Bill is typical of the kind of excuses we usually hear from Westminster ("Fears court reforms to deny dying former shipyard workers justice", The Herald, April 14).

Cost is always the excuse. If you look at Clydeside Action on Asbestos's website you can find information referring to the amount of money recovered by Government in respect of benefits and compensation paid out to asbestos victims. This isn't a few thousand pounds, but in excess of £22m. The insurance companies must be so pleased with this proposed change, it may eventually save them billions.

If you think you have been exposed to asbestos in the past remember it can take 30-40 years to manifest itself. It did in my brother's case; he died within six months of diagnosis. Write a letter of protest to your MSP, and the ministers concerned. Tell them that it is unacceptable to make changes that may make it more difficult for you or your family to claim compensation if you become ill many years down the line.

Catherine Adam,

29 Wyndham Road, Rothesay.