Autumn Statement reaction: Insurance Premium Tax the stealth tax of our time

RAC director of insurance Mark Godfrey said: “After a recent double rise in Insurance Premium Tax, this further increase is a slap in the face for motorists who will surely see their premiums once again increase. It will mean three rises in two years and a more than doubling of IPT from 5% to 12% making Insurance Premium Tax the stealth tax of our time.

“Insurance premiums have already risen by over £100 compared to last year, and motorists have told us they are feeling the pinch, with 57% telling us that their premiums have increased over the past 12 months.

“We are also concerned that the Government’s whiplash reforms, while welcomed, will not achieve savings for motorists as only a small number of insurers have so far committed to passing the savings on.

“The Chancellor may now be at risk of encouraging some hard-pressed motorists to break the law by driving without car insurance, which will further increase premiums for law-abiding drivers. We would urge the Government in the name of road safety, to reconsider this rise.”

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The RAC Media Centre provides journalists and news outlets with the latest motoring-related news, comment, data and research.

About the RAC

The RAC is an iconic British driving services brand and has been championing drivers since 1897. Today it is one of the UK’s most trusted names, providing complete peace of mind ® to over 15 million drivers across breakdown cover, insurance, and mobile servicing and repairs.

Its nationwide patrol force attends more than two million breakdowns every year, while its position as the UK’s leading independent insurance broker helps motorists find the right cover with confidence. The RAC has also reshaped the service, maintenance and repair market with its Mobile Mechanics, who carry out servicing and repairs at drivers’ homes or workplaces.

Committed to innovation, the RAC is fully electric ready with mobile EV charging technology for stranded drivers, and a suite of digital and data‑led solutions that make motoring easier and more affordable for consumers and fleets. These services come together in myRAC – the all‑in‑one app for vehicle maintenance, cheaper fuel finding and breakdown assistance.

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