The announcement that Anglo Gold Ashanti and Anglo American South Africa will pay compensation to those of the 4,365 ex-miners taking legal action against them who it is shown have silicosis is, on the face of it, welcome.  But it also raises the question what of the other ex-miners and miners who have silicosis?...

What is required is a comprehensive settlement which provides decent health care and compensation to all former miners and any current miners who are suffering from silicosis…

The scandal and disgrace is compounded by the mining sector’s refusal to accept responsibility, to deny liability and to pay large legal bills fighting legal actions rather than provide health care and compensation for silicosis sufferers.

The announcement that Anglo Gold Ashanti and Anglo American South Africa  have reached a settlement in cases that were due to go to binding arbitration should and must lead to a comprehensive settlement for all those suffering from silicosis…