§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Solicitor-General what plans she has to review the process of personal injury claims, with particular reference to the role of insurance companies. [10697]
§ Ms Rosie WintertonI have been asked to reply.
There are no specific plans, but the Government keep developments in personal injury cases and their funding under general review and are currently evaluating the Civil Justice Reforms which have been implemented since April 1999.
§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Solicitor-General what powers she has to intervene in personal injury claims when it is clear that there is deliberate delay on the part of one party. [10698]
§ Ms Rosie WintertonI have been asked to reply.
708WThe Lord Chancellor has responsibility for civil court procedure and he has no power to intervene in individual cases.
Since the introduction of the Civil Procedure Rules in April 1999 the courts have been required to manage cases actively and may impose sanctions for delay or unreasonable behaviour either before or during a claim. A party who has experienced delays when attempting to resolve the dispute should bring the matter to the court's attention. The sanctions can vary according to the nature and the effect of the delay. They range from ordering additional costs to be paid by the party causing the delay to striking out a claim or a defence.