BLACKBURN MP Jack Straw has welcomed further evidence about ‘bogus’ whiplash cases given to MPs.

Witnesses appearing before the House of Commons transport select committee said between 50 and 60per cent of such insurance claims were fraudulent.

David Brown, of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, said: “It is highly likely that the UK is the whiplash capital of the world.

“Up to 60per cent of the claims may be exaggerated, misrepresented, or fraudulent.”

David Powell, of the Lloyds Insurance Market Association, agreed that about 50per cent of such claims might be bogus, adding: “It’s so easy to fake, it’s so easy to exaggerate.

“There is a claims manufacturing industry which has developed over the last ten to 15 years.

“It has gone into overdrive.”

Mr Straw, who has been campaigning on the issue for two years, said: “I am pleased to hear more evidence about this.

“It is yet more information on this scam, and we need to act against those behind the bogus claims, and the middle men who exploit them.

“This has gone on for too long, penalising all motorists.

“Bogus whiplash claims are one of the reasons insurance premiums in the BB postcode area are so high.

“I shall continue to press for action.”