And I think taking that into account, there's a good chance that many of the properties that have been affected would not, I am afraid, be covered by insurance.

Damage assessors can't get to some properties - they are still under water.

A convicted arsonist is not likely to be seen as a very attractive candidate for buildings insurance. But just because someone has a criminal record does not mean they are uninsurable.

There are a lot of poor areas, a lot of areas where insurance is not common,

We're not expecting an immediate premium increase directly as a result of Katrina, but the wider issue of climate change is beginning to have a very serious impact on insurers.

I think for those spending two weeks in Greece every year, it is simply a case of clarifying levels of baggage cover and that the policy is in no way going to be negated by failing to disclose medical or other information.

Risk prevention is better than cure. People need to take reasonable steps, such as buying a shredder. That's the most important thing.