The French nuclear tests veterans organisation's president says the compensation bill passed by the French National Assembly is a victory, but it is only the first step.
Commenting to media in Paris, Michel Verger says the danger of the nuclear weapons tests had been denied for the past 50 years, which he says is outrageous.
He says the second step is still to come because it will have to be determined who will be eligible for compensation.
It is also to be seen how the money will be allocated.
The bill will now go to the Senate, where Mr Verger hopes it will be improved.
