LOCAL MP Andy Burnham plans to join a delegation of MPs to fight for settlement for asbestosis sufferers.

The MPs will meet Trade and Industry ministers to call for an early settlement for former Turner and Newall employees suffering from mesothelioma.

Claims for damages against the company made by local families were stalled when the parent company, Federal Mogul, filed for administration. There are fears that the cases could take several years to resolve.

Now, following concerns raised by a number of MPs, a meeting is being arranged at the DTI to explore how the process can be speeded up.

Last week, Barnsley MP Mick Clapham raised the issue with the Prime Minister. Tony Blair acknowledged the complicated legal and technical issues involved but added that the government was taking "an active interest in negotiations".

Mr Burnham said: "I want to assure the families who have raised this matter with me that things are moving forward -- albeit slowly -- and that, together with other MPs, I am continuing to call for an early solution.

"There is an important point of principle at stake. Administration cannot be seen as a means by which employers can avoid liabilities and responsibilities to their employees.

"This meeting will give us the opportunity to make that point to all concerned and to call for justice for those families whose lives have been devastated by this terrible illness."