Uncertainty still on the cards for CGU panel

The future of CGU's heavily diminished insurance panel remains uncertain after a spokesman admits that the number of companies could fluctuate over the next 12 months.
The interim insurance panel, which has been reduced since the merger in 1998 from over 100 firms to its current count of just 18, includes Wansbroughs Willey Hargrave and Berrymans Lace Mawer.
However, a spokesman for CGU says: "There could be changes as we need to see how this organisation works within the merged company."
He adds: "We may have to look at this number later on and tweak it."
It is believed that out of the 18 remaining on the panel, Commercial Union's full panel of eight from before the merger with General Accident has been retained. As one source says: "Commercial Union is incredibly loyal to its suppliers."
Although none of the 18 firms are based in the east of England, a CGU spokesman says: "We are satisfied that the solicitors we have chosen have enough geographical spread to service each of the areas."
Other firms included on the interim insurance panel include Hill Dickinson, Weightmans and Vizards Staples & Bannisters.