The UK Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting veterans who developed health conditions linked to their military service before 1987, including those affected by asbestos-related illnesses, according to written responses published on 29 April 2025.
Responding to questions from Edward Morello MP (Liberal Democrat – West Dorset), Veterans Minister Al Carns confirmed that affected individuals are eligible for support and compensation through the War Pension Scheme (WPS).
“The War Pension Scheme provides no-fault compensation for all ex-service personnel where illness, injury or death is caused by Service before 6 April 2005,” he said.
The WPS offers graded compensation based on severity. “The scheme awards a disablement percentage between 0% and 100%, with those awarded at 20%–100% receiving an ongoing weekly war pension, and those awarded at 1%–19% receiving a one-off gratuity payment,” Carns explained.
In relation to asbestos exposure, the Minister confirmed that the scheme specifically covers cases of diffuse mesothelioma, a condition commonly associated with service in older military environments. “The WPS is also open to Veterans diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos during their military service prior to 6 April 2005, offering either a lump sum or regular payments,” he said.
Beyond financial compensation, Carns highlighted a range of tailored services provided by the Ministry of Defence to veterans and their families. These include the administration of Armed Forces pensions, personalised support through the Veterans Welfare Service, Defence Transition Services, and the Integrated Personal Commissioning for Veterans initiative.
