Social Action, Responsibility and Heroism Bill

Statement from the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL)

Legislation to protect “everyday heroes” from the risk of being sued for negligence already exists. From what is known so far, this Bill covers old ground in the Compensation Act 2006 and is therefore a waste of parliamentary time. The courts already consider whether steps taken to provide a standard of care would have resulted in the prevention of a „desirable activity?, or discourage people from taking part.

The problem the Government describes lies with the perception of health and safety and civil justice, and misunderstandings about the legal system. Education, not further legislation, is the answer.