Unions and asbestos support groups have again rejected a proposed new scheme by James Hardie Industries NV to fund future asbestos compensation claims, an inquiry was told. The NSW Special Commission of Inquiry is hearing final addresses regarding the compensation claims. Union and asbestos support groups representative Jack Rush, QC, told the court that James Hardie should take responsibility for setting up a foundation that now had insufficient funds to pay future claimants. In 2001, James Hardie established the Medical Research and Compensation Foundation (MRCF), providing it with $293 million to meet future compensation claims. However, it is now expected that money will run out in just three years time, with a shortfall of more than $1 billion.