653.This section provides for the business of an insolvent insurer so far as it relates to contracts of long-term insurance to be transferred to another company, rather than for the policyholders to receive a share of the assets available on winding up.  Policyholders of long term insurers face different problems to most consumers if the company fails.  They enter into agreements, for example for pensions, which are designed to last many years, and the benefits they expect to receive build up over time.  Also, the terms of the contract (and importantly the premium) are set at the outset.  If, for example, during the course of the contract they were to develop an illness they might not then be able to obtain alternative cover.  For these reasons, it is desirable, where possible, to maintain the insurer’s business as a going concern, or to find an alternative insurer to take over its policies, rather than allowing it to be wound up.
Commentary on Sections Supplemental provisions concerning insurers Section 376: Continuation of contracts of long-term insurance where insurer in liquidation