I am delighted that Dupuytren’s Contracture – a condition which affects many former North East miners – has finally been recognised by the Government as an Industrial Disease.

This means that those suffering from this debilitating disease, which can cause fingers to curl into a claw-like state, will at last be able to claim the benefits they so rightly deserve.

It is, however, appalling that it has taken so long for the Government to come to this decision.

** See more here: https://www.shieldsgazette.com/news/thousands-of-former-miners-in-line-for-benefits-after-government-declares-miner-s-claw-an-industrial-disease-1-9422211