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<p>When the Diffuse Mesothelioma Payment Scheme (DMPS) was introduced in 2014 the
payment tariffs were based on 80 percent of the average damages awarded in the civil
courts. This amount was increased to 100 percent in 2015</p><p>This increase is far
greater than if increases had been made in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
For example, the highest DMPS payment for those aged 40 or under in 2014 was £216,896
and this was increased to £271,120 in 2015, and the lowest payment for those aged
90 or over increased from £69,649 to £87,061</p><p> </p><p>Information about the value
of court awards or out of court settlements in Diffuse Mesothelioma cases in the past
three years is not available. The <a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/269880/research-report-858.pdf"
target="_blank">'Study into average civil compensation in mesothelioma cases'</a>,
published in 2014, estimated average (mean) civil compensation at £153,531 (in 2012
prices). The average payment under the DMPS for each of the last three years is £135,000,
£141,000 and £145,000 respectively.</p><p> </p><p>In line with commitments made during
the passage of the Mesothelioma Bill, the intention is to review the payment tariffs,
in due course, to ensure payments made under the Scheme are maintained at the appropriate
level.</p>
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