Say yes to cheaper van, home and car insurance

Vauxhall Belmonts are the car most likely to be stolen, according to government statistics.

A recent survey, carried out by the Home Office, shows that Belmont owners are more likely to make a claim for theft than drivers of any other car.

The vehicles ranked higher than Vauxhall Astras, Ford Escorts and Austin Metros in the study, which looked at theft figures for 2005.

Although Belmonts are the most stolen car in Britain, the report also revealed that the number of cars being stolen has fallen by 16 per cent compared to 2004.

"That is a testament to the effort of all those working with police and manufacturers to make cars more difficult to steal," said home secretary John Reid.

"Making cars less easy to steal makes them more attractive to buy," he added.

The study found that between 2004 and 2005 there were 38,394 fewer car thefts, with Mr Reid claiming that electronic immobilisers had a "great impact" on figures.

Older vehicles were found to be the most likely to be stolen, with the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders urging owners of older models to take extra steps to ensure their car is secure.

The group offers tips such as fitting a steering lock to help drivers avoid having to make a claim on their car insurance.

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