Written question asked by Clive Efford (Labour) on Thursday, 8 July 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 22 July 1999. It was answered by Patricia Hewitt (Labour) on Thursday, 22 July 1999 on behalf of the Treasury.

Treasury

Question: To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, If he will introduce an ombudsman for individuals denied payments by permanent health insurers under the powers invested in him by the Insurance Companies Act 1982; and if he will make a statement. (Failed OPQ). - Includes ref to Financial Services and markets Bill.

Answer: Mr. Efford: To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will introduce an ombudsman for individuals denied payments by permanent health insurers under the powers invested in him by the Insurance Companies Act 1982; and if he will make a statement. [91129] Ms Hewitt: There are currently (i) a non-statutory Insurance Ombudsman, (ii) a Personal Insurance Arbitration Service and (iii) a Personal Investment Authority Ombudsman. To simplify redress for consumers, the Financial Services and Markets Bill provides for the establishment of a single Ombudsman Scheme. In establishing that scheme, the Financial Services Authority will be able to specify the types of activities, carried on by authorised persons, which fall within its remit. We envisage that will include complaints relating to Permanent Health Insurers.

Secondary information