A Ministry of Justice Report released in March 2012 has confirmed that the implementation of the Third Parties (Rights against Insurers) Act 2010 (the “Act“) is to be delayed until 2013.

The Act replaces legislation dating back to 1930 and will streamline the process by which a claimant (including those suffering from asbestos related diseases) can claim against the insurer of an insolvent wrongdoer.  A key development under the Act is that claimants will be able to proceed against the insurer directly, without first establishing the liability of an insolvent wrongdoer.

The Ministry of Justice Report explains that the delay is the result of work on “other priorities” and identifies a number of changes that will be required before implementation, including the addition of some court procedural rules and minor amendments to cover all forms of administration.

The full Ministry of Justice Report can be accessed here.