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<p>On Tuesday 17 March the Chancellor announced that as the wider economic picture
becomes clearer, the Government would do whatever it takes to get our nation through
the impacts of COVID-19 and that he stands ready to announce further action wherever
necessary. The Government is in continual dialogue with the insurance sector about
its contribution to handling this unprecedented situation.</p><p> </p><p>In the first
instance, customers who can no longer travel should seek compensation from their travel
providers. Many UK carriers are offering vouchers, free rebooking or refunds.</p><p>
</p><p>Further, on 17 March the Foreign and Commonwealth Office advised against all
non-essential travel abroad. Generally, insurance for cancellation or travel disruption
will be triggered by FCO advice. This decision will therefore allow policyholders
to claim for cancelled trips that were already booked and cannot now go ahead, if
they have the relevant cancellation or travel disruption cover in place.</p><p> </p><p>In
addition, the FCA’s rules require insurers to handle claims fairly and promptly; provide
reasonable guidance to help a policyholder make a claim, and appropriate information
on its progress; not reject a claim unreasonably; and settle claims promptly once
settlement terms are agreed.</p>
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