FORMER pitmen and their widows are being urged to turn out in numbers when Government Energy Minister Peter Hain visits the North-East on Monday.
Mr Hain will address a public meeting in Murton, County Durham, where he will face questions on the lung compensation scheme.
The meeting, at the Glebe Centre, has been organised by Easington MP John Cummings, in conjunction with Easington District Council and the North-East NUM.
All three are urging former miners and widows pursuing claims for compensation cash to attend.
Mr Cummings, who will chair the meeting, said: "I am delighted the minister has accepted the invitation to attend and we are hoping for a good turnout.
"I am convinced Peter Hain is determined to free the log jam of claims that have built up over the past two-and-a-half years.
"Particularly, I wish to see the oldest and most disabled miners claims prioritised and payments made as soon as possible."
About 19,000 North-East ex-pitmen or their widows are pursuing claims for compensation.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article