Also in the news this week ...

Police join forces

Police authorities in north-west England have teamed up for the first time to find insurance. They have put out to tender a contract for one broker to deal with their insurance needs. The authorities will have the option to purchase insurance as a single consortium.

British Gas fuels growth

British Gas Insurance (BGI) has passed the two-million customer mark. The Centrica-owned firm aims to become a top 10 insurer by 2012, tapping into its 4.5 million customer base.

Legal helpline launch

A legal helpline business acquired from Capita Insurance Services has been relaunched as Legal Assistance Direct. Leon Chmiel, previously at Capita Insurance Services, has become head of sales and business development for the new operation. The white label service operates from Colchester.

Markel mounts Centaure
Markel International is to buy French equine insurance broker and cover holder Le Centaure. The acquisition comes a year after the launch of Markel’s own equine division.

MMA to vary rates

Broker-only insurer MMA has launched variable commission rates for brokers transacting new business for its master tradesman product. Brokers can select their commission when placing business using the Broker Online system.