Insurers will not pay for the damage caused by the Oldham race violence because of a 120-year-old law that exempts them from paying when the police officially declares a riot.
The Riot (Damages) Act of 1886 says the local police must pay for damage caused if they fail to prevent people behaving in a “riotous or tumultuous” manner.
The costs of the Oldham damage, now believed to be close to £2m, will have to be met by the taxpayer, through the Greater Manchester Police Authority.
However, insurers will still have to cough up in the case of the Burnley and Bradford civil disobedience claims because those situations never reached official riot status.
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.
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.
