VICTIMS of asbestos-related cancer were last night celebrating after ministers announced a change in compensation.

The move comes after a House of Lords ruling prevented thousands of victims getting a full payout.

A legal victory by the insurance industry last month made it harder for victims of mesothelioma, and bereaved relatives, to bring a successful case if they had been employed by more than one company.

The Lord Chancellor, Lord Falconer of Thoroton, and Work and Pensions Secretary John Hutton will amend the Compensation Bill - currently going through Parliament - to improve the system.

Lord Falconer said: "The Government is acting quickly to help claimants suffering from this terrible disease to receive the compensation to which they are entitled as soon as possible.

"I intend to bring forward an amendment to the Compensation Bill to provide that, in these cases, negligent employers should be jointly and severally liable, so that the claimant can recover full compensation from any relevant employer.

"It would then be open to that employer to seek a contribution to the damages awarded from other negligent employers."

About 1,900 people die in the UK each year from the disease, a cancer of the lining of the lungs or abdomen which is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos.

Tom Brennan, GMB Northern regional secretary said: "I am glad the Government has acted to restore justice by ensuring that those whose lives have been devastated by this terrible disease will receive full compensation. GMB will continue to campaign for justice for all asbestos victims and their families."

Ian McFall, national head of asbestos litigation at Thompsons Solicitors, said: "The Government has shown a real compassion and a commitment to sufferers. This is exactly what we have been urging it to do."