Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Helen Grant and David Ward

Tuesday 2nd July 2013 Commons Chamber

[Mr David Ward (Bradford East) (LD)]

1. What steps he is taking to reduce the cost and quantity of claims for compensation for whiplash injuries.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Justice (Mrs Helen Grant)]

Earlier this year, the Government consulted on proposals to reduce the number and cost of whiplash claims. We will publish our response after we have considered the Transport Committee’s report, which we expect to be published before the summer recess.

[Mr Ward]

Car insurance premiums in Bradford are the highest in the country. The Institute and Faculty of Actuaries has released information showing that the number of third-party whiplash claims rose by 5% in the year 2010-11, although the number of accidents fell. According to the institute’s chairman, 60% of the claims were exaggerated, misrepresented or fraudulent. Will the Secretary of State look again at the period within which claims can be made? At present, a claim can be made up to three years after a whiplash accident.

[Mrs Grant]

We have no plans to change the law on limitation, but I assure my hon. Friend that the Government are absolutely committed to tackling fraudulent whiplash claims, while also ensuring that those with genuine neck injuries receive the compensation that they need and deserve. Making the system fairer for defendants does not, of course, compromise access to justice for claimants, and we will seek to restore balance to the civil justice system.