FORMER shipyard workers and miners who have suffered a job-related illness are being urged to help push through a new law which campaigners say could save the NHS millions.

Proposals by SNP MSP Stuart McMillan would see the health service repaid for a range of diseases including industrial deafness, asthma, skin diseases and asbestos-related conditions, if firms have admitted negligence.

A public consultation has now been launched to garner support for Mr McMillan's member's bill.

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Recovery of NHS costs of treatment for those injured in accidents caused by the negligence of others was recognised by the Road Traffic (NHS Charges) Act 1999.

Mr McMillan, MSP for Greenock and Inverclyde, said: “For many years the NHS has been able to recover the costs of injuries caused by road traffic accidents – I would like to see that principle extended to industrial diseases.

“The NHS in Scotland should not be disadvantaged by paying the financial price for the care and treatment of individuals whose injuries have been caused by a person or organisation’s negligence.

“In my own constituency of Greenock and Inverclyde there is a dreadful legacy of industrial disease, particularly asbestos-related conditions.

“This legislation would allow the NHS in Scotland to recover much needed cash, as millions are spent each year on treating industrial diseases which people have contracted through poor working practices and conditions.

“At the very least this legislation would drive up health and safety at work standards across Scotland.”

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Phyllis Craig MBE, Manager of Clydeside Action on Asbestos, said: “Recovering the costs for treatments for those who have sustained an industrial injury is an issue that we have been raising for some time.

“My hope is that the Bill will ultimately recover all costs of treatments provided by the NHS, as this will mean that it will be the liability of insurers to meet the costs of diagnosing, managing and treating those who have suffered an injury or illness can be enshrined in law.”

The consultation closes on Friday June 22 2018.

Peter Henderson of Henderson Solicitors, said: “Liability has been admitted in a lot of cases by employers.

“Why should the NHS pick up the tab? This law could save the health service millions.”

To take part in the consultation, which runs until June 22, go to http://smartsurvey.co.uk/s/recoveryofnhscosts