Following the other sheep

Increased competition resulting in spiralling rates - it is a common story in the insurance industry. Insurers try to maintain rates but are inevitably forced to follow the herd towards unprofitable levels. Liz Booth finds out why they are sheepish about standing their ground

As the year starts, motor insurers are hoping that the regular peaks and troughs of the market can be at least calmed, if not stopped, by some sensible underwriting. And a general consensus that the usual market pattern is no good for insurers, brokers, or ultimately the end consumer is emerging.

Insurers, however, are extremely mindful that they cannot openly talk to each other about what needs to happen for fear of being seen by the regulators to be operating some kind of cartel. There is still