The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 came into force on the 6th April 2008. However, the music and entertainment industry were granted a dispensation which provided it with extra time for implementaing the legislation. However, this runs out in a few days and from the 6th April 2008, all sectors of the entertainment industry (e.g. pubs and clubs) must comply. Essentially, compliance requires that a risk assessment be carried out where employees are exposed to noise levels of 80 decibels or more and measures taken to reduce noise exposure (i.e. hearing protection) where levels reach 85 decibels or more.

From the 1st January 2008, the level of compensation paid out for bereavement under the Fatal Accidents Act 1976 increased by a pathetic £1,800 from £10,000 to £11,800. Moreover, this was the first increase since 2002. Is this really adequate compensation for the bereaved for all the misery and suffering associated with a life cut prematurely short?

Pharmaceutical giant Merck has settled litigation in the United States in relation to its arthritis treatment Vioxx for US$4.85 billion (£2.42 billion). Merck had removed Vioxx from the market on the 30th September 2004 after a study found that it doubled the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

The deal settles around 44,000 US claims. Had Merck not settled the litigation, it could have ultimately been facing an overall payout of US$30 billion.

The amount agreed of US$4.85 billion represents around 9-12 months profits for Merck. According to the company's chief executive, Richard Clark, the settlement allows the company to resolve the financial uncertainties that have been hanging over the company.

Nevertheless, the settlement does not apply to British lawsuits, only to US claimants. Approximately 400,000 people were prescribed Vioxx in the UK and about 300 claims have been launched by British families so far.