I read the article on the lack of insurance cover for workers involved in asbestos removal with a mounting sense of incredulity (‘Most asbestos removers not insured for accidents’, The Sunday Times of Malta, February 2).

It would appear that the authorities do not realise just how dangerous asbestos is.

A good friend of mine (a UK doctor) was diagnosed with an asbestos-induced mesothelioma a couple of years ago; such a tumour is usually fatal (and painful); so far he is still alive, thanks to non-NHS treatment received in America.

Like me, he is in his 60s. While he was a medical student many years ago, he worked on a building site in order to earn some cash; he was exposed to asbestos for a relatively short time and he is now paying the price. Who will look after the families of any workers who contract asbestosis if they are not insured?

I am surprised that the trade unions have been so complacent about this.

As a matter of interest, do they ensure that all workers who deal with asbestos removal are given suitable protective clothing, including breathing apparatus?

The government needs to legislate on this matter with a sense of urgency and ensure that employer-funded insurance, together with all necessary equipment, is made compulsory for workers involved in asbestos removal.