The Government was tonight accused of “betraying working-class people” after it delayed a decision on whether to overturn a decision which stops Bradford sufferers of an asbestos-related condition getting compensation.

Bradford North MP Terry Rooney said the announcement –which all but ruled out compensation for pleural plaques sufferers – was “morally bankrupt”.

MPs and unions have repeatedly called for action after the House of Lords ruled in 2007 that sufferers of the condition, which can be an indicator of fatal asbestosis, were no longer entitled to compensation.

Justice Secretary Jack Straw was due to announce the Government response to a consultation which ended a year ago but instead said “further consideration” was needed and a statement will be made in the autumn.

He failed to silence critics by saying the Government was considering a National Centre for Asbestos Related Disease, a register for pleural plaques sufferers, faster payments for mesothelioma sufferers and the establishment of an Employers Liability Insurance Bureau.

Mr Rooney (Lab), who has campaigned against the judgment for two years, said: “This is absolutely inexcusable. It is a betrayal of working-class people. It is morally bankrupt. It is about time we dealt with it in a humane and positive way.

“This is not about an argument between different medical professionals. It is about what is right and proper – these people should be compensated.”