IHTM20242 | Life Policies: policy on the deceased’s life not connected with any other transaction (except a trust): policy effected by the deceased for their own benefit but gifted later: special rule: exclusions from special rule
From HM Revenue & Customs · Inheritance Tax Manual
The rule set out at IHTM20241 does not apply
if the transfer is on death (except where the death was before 11 April 1978)
if the transfer of value does not result in the policy or contract ceasing to be part of the transferor’s estate (except where the transfer was before 11 April 1978)
to most term assurance policies - see IHTM20243.