The House of Lords ruled against workers seeking compensation for pleural plaques caused by asbestos exposure. Pleural plaques themselves cause no symptoms and do not lead to other asbestos-related diseases, but they indicate the presence of asbestos fibers in the lungs. The Lords found pleural plaques are not actionable damage under UK law as they cause no physical or economic harm. While future asbestos-related illnesses may be compensated, pleural plaques alone will not result in compensation. The ruling establishes a binding precedent in UK courts.