Britain’s insurance companies bowed to mounting pressure last week by
announcing they would only ask for genetic test results from people applying for
life policies worth over £300,000.
Earlier in the week, the Human Genetics Commission, a government-appointed
advisory body, had demanded a three-year ban for all policies under
£500,000. In a report, the commission expressed fears that unfettered use
of such tests would create a “genetic underclass” denied life insurance because
they are more likely than most to become ill. The commission is also dubious
about the usefulness of many tests. “Our consultations have shown very real…
