Bradford and Bingley Hit

Bradford and Bingley Hit

Bradford & Bingley have been hit by new claims for compensation for the misselling of endowment and investment policies. They are thinking of taking a charge to cover potential settlements.

B&B provided a trading statement which did not make it clear as to whether the increase, over the first half of this year, was temporary or indicated a trend in increased claims.

Quote:

"The volume of claims for compensation related to endowment and investment products has increased markedly, reversing the downward trend established in the second half of 2005.

At this stage it is not clear whether the recent increase in claims is temporary and reflects only an acceleration of future claims or whether this is a new trend.

We are currently reviewing the adequacy of our provisions in respect of these claims with a view to taking a further charge and will provide an update at the interim [results]."

Why don't the life assurance companies just underwrite these policies, thus reducing the amount of time and money wasted by them on trying to avoid paying claims for compensation?