-- Compensation for violent crime victims nationwide

Prime Minister Tony Blair promised yesterday that victims of the London bombings will be paid compensation, which as of this date; they have yet to receive a penny.

On Sunday's airing of the BBC's Sunday AM programme, the Prime Minister also promised to look into the matter himself.

The attacks by four suicide bombers on three Tube trains and a bus on 7 July last year killed 52 people and injured hundreds.

Compensation rules state that families of those killed will be granted £11,000 ($19,000 US) compensation and are also eligible to apply for extra money for funeral costs. Seriously injured survivors can claim costs for loss of earnings and care as well as compensation not to exceed £500,000 ($880,000 US). Payments can be made for those who suffered mentally as well. CICA estimates it will pay out between £10 million to £15 million. Some victims have questioned whether this will be enough

Victims were understandably upset and worried when reports surfaced that suggested that they might have to wait longer for a cash payment from the body responsible for compensation. "Well, I think what is going to happen now is that over the next couple of weeks those payments are going to be made," Mr Blair said, "Given those stories that are there today I'll look into this obviously myself - but I'm sure that they'll make the payments as soon as they possibly can."

Hundreds of travellers were injured during the July 7 bombings on the three Tube trains and a bus. One victim, Martine Wright, lost both her legs in the Aldgate bomb and a Sunday newspaper reported that she was frantic over her medical bills that accumulated while she was hospitalized.

In addition to direct medical costs, she also has to adapt her home to meet her condition and she stated to The News of the World that she was clueless over how she would pay the costs.

"Victims shouldn't have to fight for compensation. I've enough to worry about learning how to walk again. This is an extra burden," Wright stated.

Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell was placed in charge of aiding victims and on July 19, Gordon Brown, the Chancellor announced that £10 million had been earmarked for them.

Additionally the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority said: "We are working as fast as we can and we'll be making our first interim payments within two or three weeks."