Motorists in Honiton feel the time is right to bridge the gender gap when it comes to car insurance premiums.

CAR insurance premiums could be driven up for women following a new European Court ruling - but drivers in East Devon feel it is about time fairer charges were brought in for both sexes.

The European Court of Justice ruled last week that insurers can no longer charge different premiums for men and women based on their gender.

East Devon motorists later told The Midweek Herald that gender should not be a factor and the cost of insurance should be decided on the risk factors of the individual.

Peter Blyth, 64, of Axminster, said: “I do feel sorry for women who may have to pay more for car insurance, but we should all be treated the same.

“It should be based on what sort of driver you are.

“If women are safer drivers, by all means charge a lower rate.”

Doreen Collins, of Broadclyst, said: “I do think it is fairer in a way.

“Although, I think some young lads are boy racers. I was told by my driving instructor that young men are more likely than women to have an accident.”

Olwyn Wyman, 65, of Honiton, said: “I think car insurance premiums should stay as they are.

“Not all men and women are the same; some are more responsible drivers - but not all of them are.

“Everyone’s insurance is going to go up.

“We are paying to cover those drivers who are not insured, which is one of the bigger problems.

“Insurance is vital.

“We are all going to pay more.”

Paul Thorn, of Honiton, said: “It is about time they made car insurance fairer.

“It should be rated on health and other risk factors. I don’t think gender matters.”

June Clark, 57, of Honiton, said: “Why shouldn’t it be fair for men and women? We asked for equality.

“It is about time it was made fair, as long as they don’t start discriminating against people because of their age.

“At the end of the day, insurance is going to go up anyway.

“Gender shouldn’t make any difference to the cost of your insurance.”

Tracey Woods, 32, said: “I think car insurance prices should be judged on your driving, not what sex you are.

“Gender really doesn’t have an affect.

“Car insurance shouldn’t just be gender driven.”