Written question asked by Tim Yeo (Conservative) on Tuesday, 15 October 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 28 October 2002. It was answered by Patricia Hewitt (Labour) on Monday, 28 October 2002 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, if she will make a statement on the cost to business of employers' and public liability insurance. - (Holding answer 21 October 2002).

Answer: Mr. Yeo: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make a statement on the cost to business of employers' and public liability insurance. [75241] Ms Hewitt: [holding answer 21 October 2002]: My Department is aware of recent increases to the cost to business of employers' and public liability insurance, which are the consequence of a number of factors, most notably the tightening of global insurance markets since September 11 last year. Although this is a cause for concern, Government generally do not interfere in what is essentially a competitive market on the basis that the terms and conditions of insurance policies are best set by insurers themselves in the light of their customers' needs, taking a commercial assessment of the risk to determine premiums. Companies experiencing difficulties in obtaining insurance cover are advised to contact Peter Staddon at the British Insurance Brokers' Association on 020 7397 0204 for general advice and assistance in finding a suitable insurance broker.

Secondary information