Written question asked by Gareth Thomas (Clwyd West) (Labour) on Wednesday, 15 November 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 22 November 2000. It was answered by David Lock (Labour) on Wednesday, 22 November 2000 on behalf of the Lord Chancellor's Department.

Lord Chancellors Dept

Question: To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department, what steps he has taken to assess the availability of insurance cover against adverse costs orders to solicitors practising personal injury litigation.

Answer: Mr. Gareth Thomas: To ask the Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department what steps he has taken to assess the availability of insurance cover against adverse costs orders to solicitors practising personal injury litigation. [139332] Mr. Lock: There is a thriving and innovative market providing litigation insurance, not only for personal injury but to take and defend other types of claims. The figures we have from major insurers indicate that, to date, well over a 100,000 after the event policies have been purchased and that number is set to increase significantly. Measures have been in place since April 2000 to enable successful parties to litigation to recover premiums from losing opponents. This means that any compensation they receive will not be diminished. Because the costs and risks of pursuing good claims are now more affordable, there is further growth in the market for supporting insurance products. My Department is in regular contact with organisations involved with providing legal services, including insurers. It is important for the Government to keep an open dialogue with the providers of legal services.

Secondary information