Japan addresses tainted blood victims

The Japanese Prime Minister said his ruling bloc will submit legislation to provide aid to about 1,000 people exposed to hepatitis C through defective blood-clotting products sold by pharmaceutical companies. About 200 patients have filed lawsuits across Japan, demanding compensation from the government and drug makers Nihon Pharmaceutical Co., Mitsubishi Pharma Corp. and the latter's subsidiary Benesis Corp. Japanese media say about 800 others are expected to file suit.