Better Risk Assessment Is Welcomed But Is Not A Panacea - Cotter

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Wed 10th Sep 2003

Commenting on the initiative launched by Association of British Insurer's earlier this week to work with trade associations to ensure that health and safety standards are given consideration when assessing risk, Brian Cotter MP, the Lib Dem Spokesperson on Small Business said,

"The fact that the insurance industry is showing a willingness to work with business in this practical way to address the issue of risk management is a certainly a step in the right direction and one that the Liberal Democrats have been calling for for sometime."

"However, this is not a panacea to the insurance problem. It is hoped that this measure will reduce costs both for business and insurers, but this cannot be guaranteed and with the Government continuing to remain silent on the issue we are left scratching at the surface of the problem."

"The insurance industry's attempts to try and address notice periods and now risk management are welcome, but there is still a long way to go on both of these issues. On top of this we need action from the Government on the 'No-Win, No-Fee' culture, and Insurance Premium Tax."

"The Government promised business and insurers last November, that it would address the issue of Employers' Liability Compulsory Insurance and 9 months down the line they still not have delivered on it."

ENDS

Notes to Editors

Brian Cotter was commenting on Making the Market Work, an ABI Initiative for the Assessment of Trade Association Health and Safety Records launched on 8 September 2003.