The SNP’s Alison Thewliss (pictured) has urged the UK government to stand behind businesses in their time of need, as gaps emerge over claims and cover due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The MP for Glasgow Central earlier echoed concerns raised by policyholders, many of them small and medium-sized businesses, who have expressed frustration at claims being rejected – a number of them because Covid-19 isn’t specified in their policy despite having infectious disease cover in their Business Interruption insurance.
Commenting after PMQs, Alison Thewliss MP said:
“Many businesses in my constituency and around the UK have shut their doors based on public health advice.
“However, a number of businesses are now finding their insurers are refusing to pay out on business interruption policies.
“A number of small and medium-sized businesses have taken out an insurance policy to protect against unforeseen events – such as the outbreak of a virus – and it now seems incredible that some insurance companies can suddenly abandon their responsibilities.
“While I don’t ask insurers to retrospectively change policies, I urge the UK government to intervene and stand behind those affected claims so businesses do not lose out for doing the right thing.”
