ASBESTOS campaigners have welcomed a government bill which could lead to reforms to the ‘distressing’ way mesothelioma deaths are dealt with.

At present if an industrial death occurs outside of coroner’s office hours policemen are sent to question the deceased’s relatives.

But changes introduced in the Coroners and Justice Bill, announced in Wednesday’s Queen’s Speech, could bring about an end to the practice.

The bill will introduce a national charter more sensitive to the needs of bereaved families and calls for the creation of national standards on asbestos-related mesothelioma deaths.

Coroners will also be granted better medical support and advice on diseases such as mesothelioma.

Jason Addy of Save Spodden Valley, the group which is campaigning against plans to build 600 homes on the site of the old Turner Brother’s asbestos factory, welcomed the change.

He said: "It is welcome news and a very compassionate move. When someone dies through an industrial disease like mesothelioma it is a very distressing time and to have the police turn up in uniform just exacerbates the situation.

"It is a job that has to be done, but the British Lung Foundation has been calling for it to be made less formal and thankfully the government has listened. This is just another example of successful campaigning."

Dame Helena Shovelton, chief executive of the BLF, said: "The current coroners system can cause unnecessary distress to people already going through a very difficult time.

"We are extremely happy that the Coroners Bill will now be brought forward to end these practices."