Human experimentation: liability insurance advice?

[R A Hillam]

I am a researcher in the U.K. planning an experiment whereby I am the sole
volunteer for an invasive procedure which requires local ethical committee
approval. This has been granted on the proviso that I am covered by
insurance, despite the fact that I have signed a disclaimer/ consent form
accepting all liability. My problem is that my University's insurers
have quoted an astronomic amount for cover despite the relatively low risk
of the procedure (similar procedures have been carried out elsewhere
before). This in effect kills my project.

Any ideas about ways around this problem? - I would be enormously grateful!

Richard Hillam