HC Deb 16 March 2004 vol 419 cc213-4W
Mr. Edward Davey

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what steps are being taken to deal with employers who operate without compulsory employers' liability insurance. [160870]

Mr. Browne

Enforcement is undertaken on a day to day basis by Health and Safety Executive (HSE) inspectors. Recent HSE research indicates a high level of compliance, over 99 per cent.

Nevertheless, the Government's recent report of the review of Employers' Liability Compulsory Insurance (ELCI) sets out a range of actions to improve enforcement. These include commitments to monitor the take-up and ensure ELCI compliance from bodies that contract with the public sector, following publication of new guidance.

A copy of the report is available in the Library.

Mr. Edward Davey

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what steps he is taking to ensure enforcement of compulsory employers' liability insurance at local level; and if he will make a statement. [160871]

Mr. Browne

Enforcement of employers' liability compulsory insurance at local level is undertaken by the Health and Safety Executive. Recent research indicates a high level of compliance, over 99 per cent.