§ Mr. CatonTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister (1) when he expects personnel in the fire services who respond to emergencies to be provided with insurance cover for terrorist incidents; [171857]
(2) what action he is taking to ensure that personnel in all fire services who respond to emergencies are provided with insurance cover for terrorist incidents. [171858]
§ Mr. RaynsfordThere are provisions within the Firefighters' Pension Scheme and Conditions of Service which provide for awards in the event of death or injury either occurring in, or as a result of, the exercise of duty.
Employer liability insurance is a matter for fire and rescue authorities who have a duty as employers to ensure that the necessary cover is provided.
The Office of the Deputy Prime Minister has had discussions with The Association of British Insurers regarding private insurance arrangements entered into by individual firefighters to determine the extent of any problem about life insurance policies. I understand that in the case of most life insurance policies there are no terrorist exclusions although individuals should check their policies.
Where occupation is a determinant of risk I understand that there should be no increase in premiums.