HL Deb 20 January 2003 vol 643 cc73-4WA
Baroness Maddock

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What discussions they have had with (a) the insurance industry; and (b) the building and roofing industry. regarding increased insurance premiums in the building and roofing industry. [HL1015]

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Trade and Industry (Lord Sainsbury of Turville)

Discussions have taken place at official level with representatives of both the insurance industry and the construction industries including the roofing sector about increased insurance premiums.

A study is being undertaken by the department to establish the extent and nature of the difficulties contractors face in obtaining a range of different types of insurance: to obtain a clearer understanding of the reasons for the problems; and how the industry could better represent its approach to risk assessment, management and control to the insurance industry.

My honourable friend the Minister for Construction met with the noble Lord, Lord Pendry, and a delegation from the National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC) in the summer of 2002 to discuss rising insurance premiums and the impact on the demolition industry. The Government are keen to have the views of all affected industries, including building, construction and roofing, on the review of the Employer's Liability Compulsory Insurance (ELCI) scheme and all written contributions should be sent to: ELCI REVIEW TEAM, Department for Work and Pensions, The Adelphi Level 2, 1–11 John Adam Street, London WC2N 6HT or by e-mail to bob.elam@dwp.gsi.gov.uk.