The cost of asbestos-related diseases in Britain could reach £20 billion over the next 30 years, according to the Faculty and Institute of Actuaries. But, while the west gears itself up for a deluge of insurance claims, more asbestos is being installed in Asia than was consumed in the USA at the peak of its use 30-40 years ago.

The Institute warns that of the £4-£10 billion in uninsured costs of asbestos-related claims, up to half will be faced by the Government and local authorities. The cost to the taxpayer could amount to £5 billion.

The Health and Safety Executive estimates that male deaths from asbestos will peak at around 2000 a year in 2010 to 2015.