MPs have warned travellers and holidaymakers that hidden clauses in their travel insurance could result in them being left stranded abroad and facing hefty bills .
The Treasury Select Committee said that last year huge numbers of UK citizens travelling abroad were sold policies that left them exposed.
They stated that there is ‘insufficient awareness’ about hidden holiday insurance clauses that could exclude cover against terrorist attacks, as well as some medical conditions, such as pregnancy, which might not be covered.
Around 20 million consumers buy holiday cover each year.
Travel agents were criticised by the commission because of their sales processes, which are likely to have ‘accentuated’ the problems due to the way holiday insurance is promoted.
MP John McFall, chair of the Treasury committee, said," All too often, exclusions are buried in the small print of insurance policies . Holidaymakers are risking damage to their health or considerable financial loss if they require treatment while abroad or repatriation to the UK ."
"There can be no doubt that consumers are suffering a detriment here, and that overcoming this is a mammoth challenge for the insurance industry, for all those who sell travel insurance and for those who regulate them," added Mr McFall.
Which? the consumer watchdog called the report ‘damning’ and said consistent regulation of travel inusrance is urgentley needed, whether sold through travel agents or elsewhere.
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Travel Insurance Crackdown Urged By MPs Mon, 26 Feb 2007      Recommended linksSearch for a short break or a holidayLook for travel insurance deals Plan your summer holiday now January Sale For Tesco Instant Travel Insurance |
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