No damages for nuclear test veterans

British ex-servicemen who say they became ill after exposure to radiation during 1950s nuclear weapons tests in the Pacific lost their legal battle for damages yesterday.

The Supreme Court ruled it was too long since the problems – including cancer and skin defects – had emerged for the claims against the Ministry of Defence.

The ruling related to nine "lead claims", from a total of 1,011 cases.

The MoD denied the tests led to radiation exposure and that health problems resulted.

Because of an earlier ruling, one "lead" case can continue, which may allow other veterans to seek compensation.