Politics
New broker regulator name changed to FCA
Financial Secretary Mark Hoban MP has announced the new regulator tasked with overseeing insurance intermediaries, previously known as the Consumer Protection and Market Authority (CPMA), will now be called the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Video: The Bribery Act 2010 delay - part 2 advice for brokers
After Justice Secretary Ken Clarke made clear the delay did not mean Government had any intention of "watering down" the Act, partner at Browne Jacobson, Matthew Woodford, advises brokers on how to prepare for the new rules.
Video: The Bribery Act 2010 delay - what does it mean for brokers?
Matthew Woodford, partner at law firm Browne Jacobson, gives his thoughts on the Government's decision to postpone the implementation of the Act.
Federation of Small Businesses welcomes bank lending announcement
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has welcomed the news that the banking sector has agreed to increase lending to small businesses.
Banks commit to 15% increase in lending to SMEs
The Government has welcomed a commitment by the UK's biggest banks on lending expectations and capacity which will focus on small to medium-sized enterprises (SME).
Enforcement welcome but lacks bite says motor industry
The insurance industry has delivered a mixed response to recent government forays into uninsured driving and the cost of insurance in the sector.
Reportage - engineering: Keeping things ticking over
With news of cutbacks to the HSE budget, there are fears the engineering inspection sector will suffer. Neil Clutterbuck advises how brokers can ensure their clients' equipment meets UK standards and help reduce risk.
Discussion paper gives first hints regarding future philosophy of CPMA
The Financial Services Authority (FSA) has called for a public debate about how it, and in future the proposed Consumer Protection and Markets Authority (CPMA), should pursue the objective of consumer protection and specifically the issue of product…
Government awaits LSB report ahead of referral fee decision
The uncertainty around the future of referral fees has persisted despite recent legal judgements indicating that Lord Justice Jackson's recommendations will be adopted.
Reportage - Commercial property: Businesses under the weather
Louise Phillips examines the risks facing commercial property when it comes to weather and how brokers should advise their clients to prepare for the worst and put in place measures to limit damage.
Power hour: A flood defence drought
The coalition has already announced that flood defence spending is to be cut. With the Statement of Principles due to run out in 2013 this month's discussion focuses on the possible impact for insurance. Emmanuel Kenning reports from Manchester.
Delay to Bribery Act should not distract businesses, says PWC
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has confirmed that the Bribery Act, due to come into force in April, will be delayed until it has issued further guidance to businesses.
Insurance Age blog: The Bribery Act = end of corporate jollies?
Every man has his price, according to Sir Richard Walpole and maybe I'm cynical but I tend to agree with him. Most people like to believe that, if pushed, they would not take an option which benefited them more than the client they should be serving.
Quantative easing now back on the cards as UK economy shrinks by 0.5%
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) has revealed that UK GDP contracted by 0.5% in the fourth quarter of 2010.
FSA to debate new interventionist strategies for the CPMA
The Financial Services Authority (FSA) has published a discussion paper to open a public debate about how it, and in future the proposed Consumer Protection and Markets Authority (CPMA), should best protect the consumer with a specific focus on product…
SSP responds to OFT investigation
Software house SSP has responded to the Office of Fair Trading's (OFT) investigation of competition concerns surrounding Experian’s Whatif? Private Motor product.
Biba launches 2011 manifesto
The British Insurance Brokers’ Association (Biba) has launched its 2011 manifesto outlining its priority lobbying issues for the year ahead.
LMA speaks out in car insurance investigation
The Lloyd’s Market Association (LMA) has warned MPs that a reduction in the price of motor insurance can only be achieved if the risks and costs borne by insurers are reduced.
Government to crack down on uninsured drivers
The British Insurance Brokers’ Association (Biba) has welcomed the news from Transport Minister, Mike Penning MP, that new powers to tackle uninsured driving will come into force within months.
Biba renews call for Government action on spiralling motor insurance costs
The British Insurance Brokers’ Association (Biba) has again called on the Government to implement an eight point plan to reduce the spiralling cost of motor insurance.
CBI calls for greater female presence in boardrooms
All UK listed companies should have to set targets for the number of women in their boardrooms, according to the Confederation of British Industry (CBI).
Polly C - the hottest insurance gossip
The Swinton Christmas shindig at the Waldorf saw the industry's great and good flock to quaff champagne and discuss the highs and lows of 2010.
Power hour: Feeling the benefit?
It is hoped that a change in the Government's position regarding benefits may open up opportunities for PMI. This month's discussion covers the expansion of cash plans, the role of trade bodies and the normally taboo subject of claims data sharing. Liz…