COST OF MOTOR INSURANCE

Early day motion 2116, tabled 20 July 2011 by David Ward (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 33 members.

That this House expresses concern over recent large increases in the cost of motor insurance; notes that the average of the lowest three quotes from 90 providers increased by 39.3 per cent. in the year to October 2010; recognises that this increase has disproportionately affected younger drivers and certain areas; further recognises that very high premiums increase the incidence of insurance fraud and encourage some people to drive without insurance, which further increases the premiums; further notes with concern that the number of personal injury claims has risen by over 70 per cent. in the last five years, despite a trend towards fewer casualties from road accidents during that period; further recognises the rising cost of personal injury claims as one of the main drivers of recent increases in insurance premiums; further notes the recommendation of Lord Justice Jackson's review of civil litigation costs that the payment of referral fees should be banned in the insurance industry; believes that responsible car owners should be able to access affordable motor insurance regardless of where they live; and calls on the Government to review the methods and resources available to the police to tackle uninsured drivers and insurance fraud and to work with the insurance industry to bring premiums down.

Signatures by party: Labour 17, Liberal Democrat 6, DUP 3, Social Democratic and Labour Party 3, Alliance 1, Conservative 1, Independent 1, Plaid Cymru 1.