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Network buys member

Broker Network acquired commercial broker Sullivan Garrett, its twentieth buy. The Swindon-based broker has been a member of Broker Network since June 2000.

First published 3 September

BDML gadget cover

BDML Insurance Solutions, part of the Capita Group, launched Gadgetsafe, a policy to cover electronic gadgets. BDML said it was talking to a number of potential affinity partners to distribute the product.

First published 29 August QBE ratings affirmed

QBE ratings affirmed

Fitch Ratings reviewed and affirmed the ratings of QBE Insurance Group and its main operating subsidiaries. Ratings covered by this affirmation include the 'A+' insurer financial strength ratings of QBE's main operating subsidiaries. The outlook on all the ratings is stable.

First published 31 August

RIAS’ National Trust deal

Over 50s insurer RIAS agreed a one-year partnership with the National Trust.

First published 31 August

Asbestos crimes rise

Criminal prosecutions brought under the Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations (2002) more than tripled last year to 37, said City law firm Reynolds Porter Chamberlain. But it warned that the costs may not be covered by insurance.

First published 3 September

Correction:

On page 49 of the Insurance Times Top 50 UK Brokers supplement the entry for Group Direct incorrectly stated that the company made a pre-tax loss of £0.7m in 2006, this should have stated that Group Direct made a £1.2m pre-tax profit. And Group Direct’s brokerage for 2006 strands at £20m, not £12.9m as stated, as that was the 2005 figure.