Advising the insurers of cheese importers found to have illegal immigrants within the container

We acted on behalf of the insurers of the leading importer of speciality cheese into the UK.

Speciality cheese from the continent was imported into the UK by lorry from France. Once in the UK the lorry was stopped by Customs and a number of illegal immigrants found within the container.

The consignment of cheese had to be destroyed. A claim was made against the insurers of the sub-contracted haulier for the losses sustained.

Liability was initially denied by the haulier’s insurers on the basis that all reasonable measures had been taken to secure the container. Both sides obtained expert evidence in relation to container security measures.

Formal proceedings followed with a favourable settlement being obtained on commercial terms.