Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30
Coronavirus FAQs
Questions about cover for coronavirus? Read our FAQs and find out what our policies can do for you. If you would like to contact us, please note we are currently only available 09:00 to 17:30 Monday to Friday due to reduced operational capacity. Thank you.
18 March 2016 09:16
The Chancellor has proposed a new Sugar Tax
Health campaigners and charities have given the thumbs-up to George Osborne's so-called "Sugar Tax".
The Chancellor announced a levy on extra-sugary drinks in Wednesday's Budget (March 16).
High sugar consumption can increase the chances of people developing heart disease, diabetes and bad teeth.
And Mr Osborne reckons that the UK economy loses £27 billion every year due to obesity.
Holiday peace of mind
People suffering from heart conditions can be left to relax and concentrate on having a great holiday by taking out heart-related travel insurance.
This covers travellers with heart-related conditions from irregular heartbeats to cardiomyopathy.
As well as covering unexpected medical complications when tourists are abroad, it can also cover flight cancellations, trip delays, stolen luggage and lost travel documents.
What the new tax means
The new levy is due to be introduced in April 2018. The measure is likely to bring in £520 million to the Treasury.
The cash will be diverted towards doubling sports funding among primary schools. Secondary schools will be urged to provide extra sports lessons in an extended school day.
The higher rate of tax will apply to drinks containing over 8g of sugar for every 100ml of drink. A lower tax will apply to those containing 5g per 100ml.
It is estimated that consumers could have to pay anything from between 18p and 24p more for their fizzy beverages, although the rates have yet to be finalised.
The Government hopes that the tax will encourage drinks firms to lower the proportion of sugar and sweeteners in their drinks.
What the experts say
Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver called the action "profound" on social media. He says he never expected the idea to be made law.
NHS England chief executive Simon Stevens described the tax as a "welcome" and "bold" move.
Children's Food Campaign co-ordinator Malcolm Clark says the levy is a key triumph for the health of children.
Soft drinks manufacturers' shares dipped after the announcement.
09 March 2020
Move over hot cross buns and chocolate eggs, there's a whole world of Easter treats out there. Here are some alternative Easter foods from around the world.
[more...]
Forget egg hunts and bunnies, Easter's done a little bit differently in these corners of the world. Here five alternative Easter celebrations.
28 February 2020
Keep your carbon footprint in check and travel green with our eco-friendly travel tips.
25 February 2020
For true carefree travel, decide on a destination that's kinder to the planet...
20 February 2020
Travel into the future and not just through time-zones, with destinations shaping urban living.
National Anthem Day falls on the 3rd March, so what better excuse is there to delve into into the world of music and motherland?
Discover five alternative places to get down on one knee this leap year.
Two-wheels are better than none. Check out our favourite cities best explored from a saddle.
04 February 2020
Make your phone the perfect travel companion for the new year...
Bohemian boulevards and ornate opera houses await away from the Six Nations action.
Kite Flying Day falls on 8th February. What better time is there to plan your next trip through the skies?
10 February 2020
With Ferris Wheel Day on 14th February, there's never been a better excuse to enjoy a foreign skyline.