Alistair Darling's meeting with ABI board intended to improve dialogue.

The ABI have called meetings with the Chancellor Alistair Darling yesterday constructive.

Darling met with the ABI’s board in the afternoon to discuss ways to build a stronger relationship with the insurance industry.

“It was a constructive discussion and I feel it’s the start of improved dialogue with the treasury,” an ABI spokesman said.

Discussions focused on issues surrounding taxation, particularly involving investment bonds, but no conclusions were drawn, the spokesman added.

Last week the ABI announced it will seek a seat on the tax forum which the government has set up to improve UK competitiveness in order to push its views on corporate tax, capital gains tax and other points of dispute.

The ABI has said it also plans to lobby the government on tax issues surrounding reserves. Excessive reserves are not currently taxed, but it believes the government is about to introduce new taxes in this arena.

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.