The recently established inter-ministerial group are examining ways and means of improving the environment for motor insurance. This group are focusing on strict and sustained enforcement of existing road traffic legislation, amendments to the Road Traffic Acts designed to reduce the motor accident rate, suggestions to improve the cost and availability of motor insurance and improvements or alternatives to the courts system for the resolution of personal injury claims. The implementation of any agreed measures will be a matter for the Ministers concerned, for example, the Minister for the Environment in relation to amendments to the Road Traffic Acts, and the Minister for Justice in relation to enforcement and for measures related to improving the operations of the courts.
I am hopeful that the group may be in a position to report to Government on proposed measures within a matter of a month or two. I would add, however, that Government action of itself will not reduce or stabilise motor insurance costs. The general public, including motorists, must play their part by increased awareness of the need for road safety.