Source: https://www.handbook.fca.org.uk/handbook/EG/19/?view=chapter
Timestamp: 2017-07-22 02:49:54
Document Index: 100310947

Matched Legal Cases: ['art 8', 'art 8', 'art 8', 'art 4', 'art 2', 'art 11', 'art 11', 'art 26', 'art 11', 'art 9', 'art 11', 'art 9', 'art 9', 'art 26', 'art 9', 'art 26']

EG 19 - FCA Handbook
EG 19 Table of Contents
EG 19.1.1
1This chapter describes many of the powers that the FCA has to enforce requirements imposed under legislation other than the Act. The chapter is ordered chronologically, ending with the most recent legislation. Where powers under different pieces of legislation are broadly the same, or apply to the same class of person, we have set out the relevant statements of policy in one section to avoid duplication. EG 19.1.2
1Where conduct may amount to a breach of more than one enactment, the FCA may need to consider which enforcement powers to use and whether to use powers from one or more of the Acts. Which power or powers are appropriate will vary according to the circumstances of the case. However, where appropriate, we have tried to adopt procedures in respect of our use of powers under legislation other than the Act which are akin to those used under the Act. We expect, for example, to provide the subject of an investigation with confirmation of the reasons for the investigation and the legislative provisions under which it is conducted unless notification would be likely to prejudice the investigation or otherwise result in it being frustrated. EG 19.2 Friendly Societies Act 1974 (FSA74), Friendly Societies Act 1992 (FSA92), Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014 (CCBSA14)21
EG 19.2.1
1The FCA has certain functions in relation to what are described as “registrant-only” mutual societies including registered societies or registered friendly societies.2 These societies are not regulated or supervised under the Act. Instead, they are subject to the provisions of 2FSA74,2 FSA92 and CCBSA142, which require them to register with the FCA and fulfil certain other obligations, such as the requirement to submit annual returns. EG 19.2.2
EG 19.2.3
1The FCA's enforcement activities in respect of registrant-only societies focus on prosecuting societies that fail to submit annual returns. As registrant-only societies are not subject to the rules imposed by the Act and by the FCA Handbook, the requirement that they submit annual returns provides an important check that the interests and investments of members, potential members, creditors and other interested parties are being safeguarded. The power to prosecute registrant-only societies who fail to meet this requirement is therefore an important tool and one which the FCA is committed to using in appropriate cases. EG 19.2.4
EG 19.2.5
1The FCA may also use its power to petition for the society’s winding up where it has prosecuted a society but the society continues to fail to submit the outstanding annual returns or defaults on submitting further returns. EG 19.2.6
1The decision whether to initiate criminal and other proceedings under these Acts will be taken in accordance with the procedure described in EG 12.1.7. Under section 9 CCBSA14,2 a society may appeal certain decisions of the FCA relating to the refusal, cancellation or suspension of a society’s registration to the High Court or, in Scotland, the Court of Session. Refusals to register a branch or to register the amendment of a society’s rules and cancellations or suspensions of a society’s listing under the FSA742 are also appealable in certain circumstance to the High Court or the Court in Sessions. Distinguishing features of the procedure for giving statutory notices under the FSA92, including available rights of reference to the Tribunal, are set out in DEPP 2.5.18G. EG 19.2.7
http://www.fca.org.uk/firms/being-regulated/enforcement/how-we-enforce-the-law/courts/friendly-societies
EG 19.3 1
EG 19.3.1
1The Credit Unions Act enables certain societies in Great Britain to be registered under IPSA65 and makes provisions in respect of these societies. It gives the FCA certain powers in addition to the powers that it has under the Act in respect of those credit unions which are authorised persons. The FCA's powers under the Credit Unions Act include the power to: require the production of books, accounts and other documents in the exercise of certain functions (section 17);
appoint an investigator or to call a special meeting of the credit union (section 18);
cancel the registration of the credit union (section 20); and
petition the High Court to wind up the credit union in particular circumstances (section 20).
EG 19.3.2
1The FCA will use these powers in a manner consistent with its approach to using the same powers under the Act. Where the FCA decides to cancel or suspend a credit union’s registration under section 20(1) of the Credit Unions Act, the credit union may appeal that decision to the High Court or, in Scotland, the Court of Session. EG 19.3.3
1The Credit Unions Act also extends to credit unions some criminal offences under IPSA65. The FCA will act in accordance with EG 12 when prosecuting these offences. EG 19.3.4
EG 19.3.5
EG 19.4 1
EG 19.4.1
1The FCA has published a separate regulatory guide, UNFCOG, which describes how it will use the general powers under the Unfair Terms Regulations, including its powers to obtain undertakings and seek information from firms. In addition, EG 10 describes how the FCA will use its injunctive powers under these Regulations. EG 19.5 1
EG 19.5.1
1RIPA provides methods of surveillance and information gathering to help the FCA in the prevention and detection of crime. RIPA ensures that, where these methods are used, an individual's rights to privacy under Article 8 of the European Convention of Human Rights are considered and protected. EG 19.5.2
1Under RIPA the FCA is able to: acquire data relating to communications;
EG 19.5.3
1The FCA is not able to obtain warrants to intercept communications during the course of transmission. EG 19.5.4
1The FCA is only able to exercise powers available to it under Parts I and II of RIPA where it is necessary for the purpose of preventing or detecting crime. All RIPA authorisations for the acquisition of communications data, the carrying out of directed surveillance and the use of CHIS must be approved by a Head of Department in the Enforcement Division. Authorisation will only be given where the authorising officer believes that the proposed action is necessary and proportionate in the specific circumstances set out in the application. Consideration will be given to any actual or potential infringement of the privacy of individuals who are not the subjects of the investigation or operation (collateral intrusion) and to the steps taken to avoid or minimise any such intrusion. When considering whether the proposed action is necessary and proportionate the following non-exhaustive list of factors is likely to be relevant: the seriousness of the offence;
EG 19.5.5
1Under Part III RIPA the FCA is able to require a person who holds “protected” electronic information (that is, information which is encrypted) to put that information into an intelligible form and, where the person has a key to the encrypted information, to require the person to disclose the key so that the data may be put into an intelligible form. The FCA may impose such a requirement where it is necessary for the purpose of preventing or detecting crime or where it is necessary for the purpose of securing the effective exercise or proper performance by the FCA of its statutory powers or statutory duties. In order to serve a notice under Part III RIPA, the FCA must obtain written permission from an appropriate judicial authority. The FCA does not anticipate using powers under Part III very often as it expects firms and individuals to provide information in intelligible format pursuant to requirements to provide information under the Act. Home Office Codes of Practice
EG 19.5.6
EG 19.5.7
1RIPA provides for the appointment of Commissioners to oversee the compliance of designated authorities with RIPA requirements, and the establishment of a tribunal with jurisdiction to consider and determine, amongst other things, complaints and referrals about the way in which the FCA and other public bodies use their RIPA powers. EG 19.6 1
Regulated Activities Order 2001 (RAO)
EG 19.6.1
1The RAO sets out those activities which are regulated for the purposes of the Act. Part V of the RAO also requires the FCA to maintain a register of all those people who are not authorised by the FCA but who carry on insurance mediation activities. Under article 95 RAO, the FCA has the power to remove from the register an appointed representative who carries on insurance mediation activities if it considers that he is not fit and proper. The FCA will give the person a warning notice informing him that it proposes to remove his registration and a decision notice if the decision to remove his registration is taken. The decisions to give a warning notice or a decision notice will be taken by the RDC following the procedures set out in DEPP 3.2 or, where appropriate, DEPP 3.3. A person who receives a decision notice under article 95 RAO may refer the matter to the Tribunal. EG 19.7 1The Open-Ended Investment Companies Regulations 2001
EG 19.7.1
1The OEIC Regulations set out requirements relating to the way in which collective investment may be carried on by open-ended investment companies. Under the OEIC Regulations, the FCA has the power, amongst other things, to: revoke an open-ended investment company’s authorisation in several situations, including where the firm breaches relevant requirements or provides us with false or misleading information (regulation 23);
EG 19.7.2
1Factors that the FCA may take into account when it decides whether to use one or more of these powers include, but are not limited to, factors which are broadly similar to those in EG 14.1.1 in the context of AUTs or ACSs. However, the relevant conduct will be that of the ICVC, the director or directors of the ICVC and its depositary. Another difference is that the FCA is also able to take disciplinary action against the ICVC itself since the ICVC will be an authorised person. When choosing which powers to use, the FCA will adopt an approach which is broadly similar to that described in EG 14.2 to 14.5. EG 19.7.3
1The FCA will give a company a warning notice if it proposes to revoke the company’s authorisation and a decision notice if the decision to revoke the company’s authorisation is subsequently taken. The decisions to give a warning notice or a decision notice will be taken by the RDC following the procedures set out in DEPP 3.2 or, where appropriate, DEPP 3.3. A person who receives a decision notice under the OEIC Regulations may refer the matter to the Tribunal. EG 19.7.4
1Under the OEIC Regulations, the FCA may also use its disqualification powers against auditors who fail to comply with a duty imposed on them under FCArules. The procedure which the FCA will follow when exercising its disqualification powers is set out in EG 15. EG 19.8 1
Electronic Commerce Directive (Financial Services and Markets) Regulations 2002
EG 19.8.1
1The FCA has powers under regulation 6 of the ECD Regulations, provided certain policy and procedural conditions are met, to direct that an incoming ECA provider may no longer carry on a specified incoming electronic commerce activity, or may only carry it on subject to specified requirements. EG 19.9 1Electronic commerce activity directions: the FCA’s policy
EG 19.9.1
1The FCA will exercise the power to make an electronic commerce activity direction on a case-by-case basis. When deciding whether to make a direction, the FCA will undertake an assessment of whether the circumstances of the particular case meet the policy conditions set out in regulation 6. EG 19.9.2
1On obtaining information concerning possible financial crime facilitated through or involving an incoming ECA provider, or detriment to UK markets or UK ECA recipients caused by the activities of an incoming ECA provider, the FCA will contact the relevant EEA regulator of the incoming ECA provider. The FCA would expect the relevant EEA regulator to consider the matter, investigate it where appropriate and keep the FCA informed about what action, if any, was being taken. The FCA may not need to be involved further if the action by the relevant EEA regulator addresses the FCA's concerns. EG 19.9.3
1However, there are likely to be circumstances in which the FCA will need to use the electronic commerce activity direction power. Examples could include where it was necessary to stop the behaviour complained of, or to make the continued provision of services by the incoming ECA provider conditional upon compliance with specified requirements. Overall, the FCA may use the direction power: (1) where: (a) the behaviour complained of was causing, or had the potential to cause, major detriment to consumers in the United Kingdom; or (b) the incoming ECA provider's activities have been used, or have the potential to be used, to facilitate serious financial crime or to launder the proceeds of a crime; or (c) the making of the direction is considered to be necessary for other reasons of public policy relevant to the regulatory objectives; and (2) either: (a) the relevant EEA regulator is unable to take action, or has not within a reasonable time taken action which appears to the FCA to be adequate; or (b) the relevant EEA regulator and the FCA agree that, having regard to the circumstances of the particular case, action against the wrong-doing would be taken more effectively by the FCA. EG 19.9.4
1The question of whether the FCA decides to prevent or prohibit the incoming electronic commerce activity, or to make it subject to certain requirements (for example, compliance with specified rules), will depend on the overall circumstance of the case. A relevant consideration will be whether the FCA is satisfied that its concerns over the incoming electronic commerce activity can be adequately addressed through the imposition of a requirement, rather than a complete prohibition on the activity. Set out below is a list of factors the FCA may consider. The list is not exhaustive. (1) The extent of any loss, or risk of loss, or other adverse effect on UKECA recipients: The more serious the loss or potential loss or other adverse effect on them, the more likely it is to be appropriate for the FCA to use its powers to prohibit the activity altogether, to protect the interests of UKECA recipients. (2) The extent to which customer assets appear to be at risk. (3) The risk that the incoming ECA provider's activities may be used or have been used to facilitate financial crime or to launder the proceeds of a crime: Information available to the FCA, including information supplied by other law enforcement agencies, may suggest that the incoming ECA provider is being used for, or is itself involved in, financial crime. Where this appears to be the case, a direction that the incoming electronic commerce activity should cease may be appropriate. (4) The risk that the incoming ECA provider's activities present to the financial system and to confidence in the financial system. (5) The impact that a complete prohibition on the activity would have on UKECA recipients. EG 19.9.5
1The FCA may consider that a case is urgent, in particular, where: (1) the information available to it indicates serious concerns about the incoming electronic commerce activity that need to be addressed immediately; and (2) circumstances indicate that it is appropriate to use the direction power immediately to prohibit the incoming electronic commerce activity, or to make the carrying on of the activity subject to specified requirements. EG 19.9.6
1The FCA will consider the full circumstances of the case when deciding whether exercising the direction power, without first taking the procedural steps set out in regulation 6, is an appropriate response to such concerns. The factors the FCA may consider include those listed in paragraph 19.9.4 of this guide. There may be other relevant factors. Decision making
EG 19.9.7
1The FCA's decision to make, revoke or vary an electronic commerce activity direction will generally be taken by the RDC Chairman. However, this is subject to two exceptions. (1) In an urgent case and if the Chairman is not available, the decision will be taken by an RDC Deputy Chairman and where possible, but subject to the need to act swiftly, one other RDC member. (2) If a provider who has been notified of the FCA's intention to make a direction or to vary a direction on its own initiative makes representations within the period and in the manner required by the FCA, then those representations will be considered by the RDC, rather than by the RDC Chairman alone. Having taken into account the provider's representations, the RDC will then decide whether to make the direction, or to vary the existing direction. EG 19.9.8
1Where a provider must be given the opportunity to make representations in relation to a proposed direction or variation of a direction, the RDC Chairman will determine in each case the manner and the period within which those representations should be made. If the FCA decides to issue a direction or vary it at its own initiative, or if the FCA refuses an application to vary or revoke a direction, the person to whom the direction applies may refer the matter to the Tribunal. Publicity
EG 19.9.9
1Regulation 10(8) of the ECD Regulations provides that if the FCA makes a direction, it may publish, in such manner as it considers appropriate, such information about the matter to which the direction relates as it considers appropriate in furtherance of any of the objectives referred to in paragraph 19.9.3(1) of this guide. However, under Regulation 10(9), the FCA may not publish information relating to a direction if publication would, in the FCA's
opinion, be unfair to the provider to whom the direction applies or prejudicial to the interests of consumers. EG 19.9.10
1When deciding what information, if any, to publish and the appropriate manner of publication, the FCA will consider the full circumstances of each case. The FCA anticipates that it will generally be appropriate to publish relevant details of a direction, in order to protect and inform consumers. However, in accordance with the Regulation 10(9) prohibition, it will not publish information if it considers that publication would be unfair to the provider or prejudicial to the interests of consumers. EG 19.10 1
EG 19.10.1
1The FCA, together with several other UK authorities, has powers under Part 8 of the Enterprise Act to enforce breaches of consumer protection law. Where a breach has been committed, the FCA will liaise with other authorities, particularly the Competition and Markets Authority (the CMA), to determine which authority is best placed to take enforcement action. The FCA would generally expect to be the most appropriate authority to deal with breaches by authorised firms in relation to regulated activities. EG 19.10.2
1The Enterprise Act identifies two types of breach which trigger the Part 8 enforcement powers. These are referred to as: (1) “domestic infringements”, which are breaches of particular UK enactments or of contractual or tortious duties, in each case if they occur in the course of a business and in relation to goods or services supplied or sought to be supplied: (a) to or for a person in the UK; or (b) by a person with a place of business in the UK; and (2) “Community infringements”, which are breaches of the EU legislation listed in Schedule 13 to the Enterprise Act, if directly effective, or of national laws, whether of the UK or not, giving effect to that EU legislation, even where it is directly effective, including provisions of those national laws that provide additional protections, beyond but permitted by that EU legislation. In both cases the breach must, to trigger those powers, harm the collective interests of consumers. EG 19.10.3
1The Community legislation falling within the FCA's scope under the Enterprise Act is: the Unfair Terms in Consumer Contracts Directive;17
EG 19.10.4
1The FCA has powers under Part 8 of the Enterprise Act both as a “designated enforcer” in relation to domestic and Community infringements and as a “CPC enforcer” which gives the FCA and other CPC enforcers additional powers in relation to Community infringements so that they can meet their obligations as “competent authorities” under Regulation (EC) No.2006/2004 on co-operation between national authorities responsible for enforcement of consumer protection laws (the CPC Regulation). The FCA’s powers as a designated enforcer
EG 19.10.5
1As a designated enforcer, the FCA has the power to apply to the courts for an enforcement order which requires a person who has committed a domestic or Community infringement or, as to the latter, is likely to commit such an infringement: (1) not to engage, including through a company and, as to a domestic infringement, whether or not in the course of business, in the conduct which constituted, or is likely to constitute, the infringement; (2) to publish the order and/or a corrective statement; (3) to offer compensation or other redress, including the right to terminate relevant contracts, to affected consumers; (4) where such consumers cannot be practically identified, to take measures in the collective interests of consumers; (5) to take measures intended to prevent or reduce the risk of the relevant conduct occurring or being repeated; and/or (6) to take measures intended to enable consumers to choose more effectively between persons supplying or seeking to supply goods or services; although it should be noted that the remedies listed under (3) to (6) inclusive are only applicable to conduct taking place or likely to occur after the relevant provisions of the CRA came into force. EG 19.10.6
1The FCA may also apply, if necessary without notice, for interim enforcement orders where immediate temporary prohibition of the relevant conduct is expedient pending full consideration by the court. Such interim orders can also be sought pre-emptively in relation to Community infringements, but again only preventing conduct in the course of business. EG 19.10.7
1The FCA’s investigative powers in support of its Enterprise Act enforcement powers are set out in Schedule 5 to the CRA. The FCA can, under Schedule 5, require any person to provide it with information which will enable it to (i) exercise or consider exercising its functions as an enforcer; or (ii) determine whether a person is complying with an enforcement order, an interim enforcement order or an undertaking given as described below. If the FCA requires a person to provide it with information, it must give him a notice setting out the information that it requires and specifying the relevant enforcement function and/or any such purpose. EG 19.10.8
1Before the FCA may apply for an enforcement order, including an interim enforcement order, it must: (1) give notice to the CMA of its intention to apply for an enforcement order; and (2) unless the application relates to breach of an undertaking given to the court (other than one to provide information), consult the person against whom the enforcement order would be made. EG 19.10.9
1The periods for notification and consultation is (both of which can be waived by the CMA) are: (1) 14 days before an application for an enforcement order is made unless, just as to consultation, the person to be consulted is a member of or represented by a body operating an approved consumer code, in which case the period is 28 days; or (2) 7 days in the case of an application for an interim enforcement order, unless the application relates to breach of an undertaking given to the court, in which case the CMA must be notified but not necessarily in advance. EG 19.10.10
1The aim of consultation is to ensure that any action taken is necessary and proportionate, and to ensure that businesses are given a reasonable opportunity to put things right before the courts become involved. The consultation period starts when the person receives the FCA's request for consultation and runs whether or not that person agrees to be consulted and/or is available for consultation. EG 19.10.11
1The Enterprise Act also makes provision for enforcers and courts to accept undertakings from persons who have committed breaches or, in respect of Community infringements, are considered likely to do so. The undertaking confirms that the person will not, amongst other things, commence, continue or repeat the conduct which constituted or, as to a Community infringement, would constitute the breach, although, as above, such a pre-emptive prohibition will only apply to conduct in the course of business. The undertaking may also confirm that the person will compensate consumers and/or take the other measures described in paragraph 19.10.5, above. There is a general expectation that, if a breach of applicable legislation or of a relevant duty is committed, or if a Community infringement is likely to be committed, enforcers will seek an undertaking from the person in question before applying to court for an enforcement order. EG 19.10.12
1The FCA may take steps to publish the undertakings it receives, and may apply to the court for an enforcement order if a person fails to comply with an undertaking that he has given. The FCA’s powers as a CPC enforcer
EG 19.10.13
1In addition to its powers as a designated enforcer under the Enterprise Act, the FCA also has powers, in its capacity as a “CPC enforcer” and, therefore, only in respect of Community infringements, to enter commercial premises with or without a warrant. The FCA must give at least two working days’ notice of its intention to enter such premises without a warrant unless that is not reasonably practicable. If the FCA cannot give a notice in advance, it must produce the notice on the day the premises are entered. Use of enforcement powers under Enterprise Act
EG 19.10.14
www.gov.uk/governmentorganisations
EG 19.10.15
1Further information about the FCA's powers under the CPC Regulations is provided at paragraphs 19.13.1 to 19.13.5 below. Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA)
EG 19.10.16
POCA provides the legislative framework for the confiscation from criminals of the proceeds of their crime. Under POCA, the FCA can apply to the Crown Court for a restraint order when it is investigating or prosecuting criminal cases. A restraint order prevents the person(s) named in the order from dealing with the assets it covers for the duration of the order. EG 19.10.17
1The FCA may apply for such an order where a criminal investigation has been started or where proceedings have started but not concluded; in either case there must be reasonable cause to believe that the defendant has benefited from criminal conduct. In this context, a person benefits from criminal conduct if he obtains property or a pecuniary advantage as a result of or in connection with conduct that would be an offence if it took place in England or Wales, regardless of whether he also obtains it in some other connection. The court is required to exercise its powers with a view to securing that the value of realisable assets is not diminished. EG 19.10.18
1Once an order is made, the applicant or anyone affected by the order can apply to the court for it to be varied or discharged. The court must discharge the order if the condition for granting it is no longer satisfied, that is, if the criminal investigation has not led to criminal proceedings being started within a reasonable time or the criminal proceedings have concluded. EG 19.10.19
1A restraint order may apply to any realisable property held by the specified person whether or not described in the order, or to any such property transferred to him after the order is made. The order may contain exceptions for reasonable living and business expenses, but not for legal expenses relating to the offences from which he is suspected to have benefited for the order to be made. EG 19.10.20
1The order can apply to assets wherever they are held, and anyone breaching the order would be guilty of contempt of court in this country. The FCA may request that the court make ancillary orders requiring the person to disclose his assets and/or to repatriate assets held overseas. EG 19.10.21
POCA also contains various powers of investigation which the FCA may use in specified circumstances. However, where these powers overlap with powers under the Act, the FCA will in most cases consider it more appropriate to rely on its investigation powers under the Act.
EG 19.10.22
EG 19.10.23
EG 19.10.24
EG 19.11 1
EG 19.11.1
EG 19.11.2
1The FCA may apply to the courts for an injunction or interim injunction against a person who appears to it to be responsible for a breach of the Regulations. The FCA may also accept undertakings from the person who committed the breach that he will comply with the Regulations. The FCA must publish details of any applications it makes for injunctions; the terms of any orders that the court subsequently makes; and the terms of any undertakings given to it or to the court. EG 19.11.3
1The FCA may also prosecute offences under the Regulations which relate to specified contracts. It will generally be appropriate for the FCA to seek to resolve the breach by obtaining an undertaking before it applies for an injunction or initiates a prosecution. Where a failure by a firm to meet the requirements of the Regulations also amounts to a breach of the FCA'srules, the FCA will consider all the circumstances of the case when deciding whether to take action for a breach of its rules or under the Regulations. This will include, amongst other things, having regard to appropriate factors set out in DEPP 6 and the considerations in EG 12. EG 19.12 2
Financial Conglomerates and Other Financial Groups Regulations 2004
EG 19.12.1
EG 19.12.2
2The FCA's powers to vary a firm’s Part 4A permission or to impose requirements under sections 55J and 55L of the Act have been extended under these Regulations. The FCA is able to use these powers where it is desirable to do so for the purpose of: supervision in accordance with the Financial Conglomerates Directive;
acting in accordance with specified provisions of the Solvency II Directive
EG 19.12.3
EG 19.13.1
1The FCA is a competent authority under the CPC Regulation, which aims to encourage and facilitate co-operation between competent authorities across the EU in consumer protection matters. The FCA is a competent authority for the purposes of specified EU consumer protection laws27 in the context of the regulated activities of authorised firms and of breaches by UK firms concerning “specified contracts” as defined in the Financial Services (Distance Marketing) Regulations 2004 (for which see paragraphs 19.11.1 to 19.11.3). 26 Regulation (EC) No.2006/2004 on co-operation between national authorities responsible for enforcement of consumer protection laws.
EG 19.13.2
1All CPC competent authorities have a minimum set of enforcement and investigatory powers available to them to ensure that across the EU there is a robust toolkit to protect consumers. These are powers to: access any relevant document related to the breach;
EG 19.13.3
1The powers are engaged when a person breaches one of the EU consumer protection laws which are scheduled to the CPC Regulation and the breach is one which harms, or is likely to harm, the collective interests of consumers who live in a member state other than the member state in which the breach was committed; where the person who committed the breach is established; or where evidence or assets relating to the breach are located. EG 19.13.4
1Under the CPC Regulation the FCA can request information from competent authorities in other member states to help it determine whether a relevant breach has taken, or may take, place. The FCA can also request that competent authorities in the relevant member states take action without delay to stop or prohibit the breach. All competent authorities are required to notify their counterparts in relevant member states when they become aware of actual or possible breaches of European consumer protection law. EG 19.13.5
EG 19.14.1
1The FCA has investigation and sanctioning powers in relation to both criminal and civil breaches of the Money Laundering Regulations. The Money Laundering Regulations impose requirements including, amongst other things, obligations to apply customer due diligence measures and conduct ongoing monitoring of business relationships on designated types of business. EG 19.14.2
EG 19.14.2A
EG 19.14.3
•	to prosecute a relevant person, including but not limited to an 2
authorised firm, an 2
Annex I financial institution or an auction platform, as well as any responsible officer2;
EG 19.14.4
1This means that there will be situations in which the FCA has powers to investigate and take action under both the Act and the Money Laundering Regulations. The FCA will consider all the circumstances of the case when deciding what action to take and, if it is appropriate to notify the subject about the investigation, will in doing so inform them about the basis upon which the investigation is being conducted and what powers it is using. The FCA will adopt the approach outlined in EG 12 when prosecuting Money Laundering Regulations offences. In the majority of cases where both the Regulations and the FCArules apply and regulatory action, as opposed to criminal proceedings, is appropriate, the FCA generally expects to continue to discipline authorised firms under the Act.
EG 19.14.5
1The Money Laundering Regulations also provide investigation powers that the FCA can use when investigating whether breaches2 have taken place. These powers include: •	the power to require information from, and attendance of, relevant persons, payment service providers2
and connected persons (regulation 662
EG 19.14.6
1The FCA will adopt a risk-based approach to its enforcement under2 the Money Laundering Regulations. Failures in anti-money laundering or counter-terrorist financing2 controls will not automatically result in disciplinary sanctions, although enforcement action is more likely where a firm has not taken adequate steps to identify its2 risks or put in place appropriate controls to mitigate those risks, and failed to take steps to ensure that controls are being effectively implemented. EG 19.14.7
EG 19.15.1
EG 19.15.2
1When the FCA proposes or decides to censure a person,2 impose a penalty on a person, suspend, cancel or restrict an authorisation or registration or impose a prohibition on a person2 under the Money Laundering Regulations, it must give the person a warning notice or a decision notice2. EG 19.15.3
EG 19.15.4
EG 19.15.5
1When imposing or determining the level of a financial penalty under regulation 76 of the Money Laundering Regulations2, the FCA's policy includes having regard, where relevant, to relevant factors in DEPP 6.2.1G and DEPP 6.5 to DEPP 6.5D. The FCA may not impose a penalty where there are reasonable grounds for it to be satisfied that the subject of the proposed action took all reasonable steps and exercised all due diligence to ensure that the relevant requirement of the Money Laundering Regulations would be met. In deciding whether a person has failed to comply with a requirement of the Money Laundering Regulations, the FCA must consider whether he or she2 followed any relevant guidance which was issued by a European Supervisory Authority in accordance with articles 17, 18.4 or 48.10 of the Fourth Money Laundering Directive, with article 25 of the Funds Transfer Regulation, or with any relevant guidance which was issued at the time by2 a supervisory authority or other appropriate body, including the2 Joint Money Laundering Steering Group2. EG 19.15.5A
EG 19.15.6
1As with cases under the Act, the FCA may settle or mediate appropriate cases involving civil breaches of the Money Laundering Regulations or the Funds Transfer Regulation2 to assist it to exercise its functions under the Money Laundering Regulations2 in the most efficient and economic way. The settlement discount scheme set out in DEPP 6.7 applies to penalties, suspensions, restrictions and temporary prohibitions2 imposed under regulations 76, 77 and 78 of2 the Money Laundering Regulations. EG 19.15.7
1The FCA will apply the approach to publicity that it has outlined in EG 6, read in the light of applicable publicity provisions in regulation 84 of the Money Laundering Regulations2. EG 19.16 1
Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2007 (The Transfer of Funds Regulations) [deleted]
EG 19.16.1
EG 19.17 1
Regulated Covered Bonds Regulations 2008
EG 19.17.1
1The RCB Regulations provide a framework for issuing covered bonds in the UK. Covered bonds issued under the RCB Regulations are subject to strict quality controls and both bonds and issuers must be registered with the FCA. The RCB Regulations give the FCA powers to enforce these Regulations. Where a person has failed, or is likely to fail, to comply with any obligation under the RCB Regulations, the FCA may make a direction that the person take steps to ensure compliance with the Regulations or it may make a direction for the winding up of the owner of the asset pool. The FCA may also remove an issuer from the register if it fails to comply with the Regulations. In addition, the FCA may apply to court for an order restraining a person from committing a breach of the Regulations or requiring the person to take steps to remedy the breach. The RCB Regulations also give the FCA the power to impose a financial penalty on a person for a breach of the Regulations. EG 19.17.2
1The FCA may use the information gathering powers set out in section 165 of the Act when monitoring and enforcing compliance with the RCB Regulations, and may appoint skilled persons as provided in section 166 of the Act. EG 19.17.3
EG 19.17.4
1The FCA may agree to settle cases in which it proposes to impose a financial penalty under the RCB Regulations if the right regulatory outcome can be achieved. The settlement discount scheme set out in DEPP 6.7 applies to penalties imposed under the RCB Regulations. See DEPP 5 and EG 5 for further information about the settlement process. EG 19.18 1
EG 19.18.1
1The FCA has investigation and sanctioning powers in relation to both criminal and civil breaches of the Counter Terrorism Act 2008 (“the Counter Terrorism Act”). The Counter Terrorism Act allows the Treasury to issue directions imposing requirements on relevant persons in relation to transactions or business relationships with designated persons of a particular country. Relevant persons may be required to take the following action: apply enhanced customer due diligence measures;
EG 19.18.2
1The FCA is responsible for monitoring and enforcing compliance with requirements imposed by the Treasury under the Counter Terrorism Act by ‘credit institutions’ that are authorised persons and by ‘financial institutions’ (except money service businesses that are not authorised persons and consumer credit financial institutions). ‘Credit institutions’ and ‘financial institutions’ are defined in Part 2 of Schedule 7 to the Counter Terrorism Act. EG 19.18.3
1The investigation and sanctioning powers given to the FCA by the Counter Terrorism Act are similar to those given to the FCA by the Money Laundering Regulations. The FCA's approach to using its powers under the Counter Terrorism Act will be consistent with its approach to using its powers under the Money Laundering Regulations, described in paragraphs 19.15.1 to 19.15.7 above. EG 19.19 1
Insurance Accounts Directive (Lloyd’s Syndicate and Aggregate Accounts) Regulations 2008
EG 19.19.1
1The Lloyd’s Accounting Regulations implement the Audit and Accounts Directives in relation to the Lloyd’s insurance market. They aim to increase the transparency of the accounts published by Lloyd’s syndicates by imposing requirements in relation to the preparation and disclosure of the accounts. The Regulations give the FCA the power to institute criminal proceedings for an offence committed under the Regulations. EG 19.19.2
1Our policy in relation to the prosecution of criminal offences and the circumstances in which we would expect to commence criminal proceedings is set out in EG 12. EG 19.20 1
EG 19.20.1
1The FCA has investigation and sanctioning powers in relation to both criminal and civil breaches of the Payment Services Regulations. The Payment Services Regulations impose requirements including, amongst other things, obligations on payment service providers to provide users with a range of information and various provisions regulating the rights and obligations of payment service users and providers. EG 19.20.2
1The FCA's approach to enforcing the Payment Services Regulations will mirror its general approach to enforcing the Act, as set out in EG 2. It will seek to exercise its enforcement powers in a manner that is transparent, proportionate, responsive to the issue, and consistent with its publicly stated policies. It will also seek to ensure fair treatment when exercising its enforcement powers. Finally, it will aim to change the behaviour of the person who is the subject of its action, to deter future non-compliance by others, to eliminate any financial gain or benefit from non-compliance, and where appropriate, to remedy the harm caused by the non-compliance. EG 19.20.3
1The regulatory powers which the Payment Services Regulations provide to the FCA include: the power to require information;
EG 19.20.4
1The FCA also has the power to prohibit or restrict the carrying out of certain regulated activities by EEA authorised payment institutions. EG 19.20.5
1The Payment Services Regulations, for the most part, mirror the FCA's investigative, sanctioning and regulatory powers under the Act. The FCA has decided to adopt procedures and policies in relation to the use of those powers akin to those it has under the Act. Key features of the FCA's approach are described below. EG 19.21 1The conduct of investigations under the Payment Services Regulations
EG 19.21.1
1The Payment Services Regulations apply much of Part 11 of the Act. The effect of this is to apply the same procedures under the Act for appointing investigators and requiring information when investigating breaches of the Payment Services Regulations. EG 19.21.2
1The FCA will notify the subject of the investigation that it has appointed investigators to carry out an investigation under the Payment Services Regulations and the reasons for the appointment, unless notification is likely to prejudice the investigation or otherwise result in it being frustrated. The FCA expects to carry out a scoping visit early on in the enforcement process in most cases. The FCA's policy in civil investigations under the Payment Services Regulations is to use powers to compel information in the same way as it would in the course of an investigation under the Act. EG 19.22 1Decision making under the Payment Services Regulations
EG 19.22.1
1The RDC is the FCA's decision maker for some of the decisions under the Payment Services Regulations as set out in DEPP 2 Annex 1G. This builds a layer of separation into the process to help ensure not only that decisions are fair but that they are seen to be fair. The RDC will make its decisions following the procedure set out in DEPP 3.2 or, where appropriate, DEPP 3.3 and 3.4. DEPP 3.4 applies for urgent notices under Regulations 11(6), (9), and (10)(b) (including as applied by Regulation 14). EG 19.22.2
1For decisions made by executive procedures the procedures to be followed will be those described in DEPP 4. EG 19.22.3
EG 19.22.4
EG 19.22.5
1Certain FCA decisions (for example the cancellation of an authorisation or the imposition of a financial penalty) may be referred to the Tribunal by an aggrieved party. Imposition of penalties under the Payment Services Regulations
EG 19.22.6
1When imposing a financial penalty the FCA's policy includes having regard to the relevant factors in DEPP 6.2 and DEPP 6.4. The FCA's policy in relation to determining the level of a financial penalty includes having regard, where relevant, to DEPP 6.5 to DEPP 6.5D. EG 19.22.7
1As with cases under the Act, the FCA may settle or mediate appropriate cases involving civil breaches of the Payment Services Regulations to assist it to exercise its functions under the Regulations in the most efficient and economic way. See DEPP 5, DEPP 6.7 and EG 5 for further information on the settlement process and the settlement discount scheme. Statement of policy in section 169(7) interviews (as implemented by the Payment Services Regulations)
EG 19.22.8
1The Payment Services Regulations apply section 169 of the Act which requires the FCA to publish a statement of policy on the conduct of certain interviews in response to requests from overseas regulators. For the purposes of the Payment Services Regulations the FCA will follow the procedures described in DEPP 7. EG 19.23 1
EG 19.23.1
1The FCA has investigation and sanctioning powers in relation to both criminal and civil breaches of the Electronic Money Regulations. The Electronic Money Regulations impose requirements including, amongst other things, various provisions regulating the rights and obligations of electronic money institutions. EG 19.23.2
1In addition to its powers that apply to authorised electronic money institutions, generally the FCA has the power to prohibit or restrict the carrying out of certain regulated activities by EEA authorised electronic money institutions. EG 19.23.3
1The FCA's approach to enforcing the Electronic Money Regulations will mirror its general approach to enforcing the Act, as set out in EG 2. It will seek to exercise its enforcement powers in a manner that is transparent, proportionate, responsive to the issue, and consistent with its publicly stated policies. It will also seek to ensure fair treatment when exercising its enforcement powers. Finally, it will aim to change the behaviour of the electronic money issuer or relevant person who is the subject of its action, to deter future non-compliance by others, to eliminate any financial gain or benefit from non-compliance, and where appropriate, to remedy the harm caused by the non-compliance. EG 19.23.4
1The Electronic Money Regulations, for the most part, mirror the FCA's investigative, sanctioning and regulatory powers under the Act. The FCA has decided to adopt procedures and policies in relation to the use of those powers akin to those it has under the Act. Key features of the FCA's approach are described below. The conduct of investigations under the Electronic Money Regulations
EG 19.23.5
1The Electronic Money Regulations apply much of Part 11 of the Act. The effect of this is to apply the same procedures under the Act for appointing investigators and requiring information when investigating breaches of the Electronic Money Regulations. EG 19.23.6
1The FCA will notify the subject of the investigation that it has appointed investigators to carry out an investigation under the Electronic Money Regulations and the reasons for the appointment, unless notification is likely to prejudice the investigation or otherwise result in it being frustrated. The FCA's policy in civil investigations under the Electronic Money Regulations is to use powers to compel information in the same way as it would in the course of an investigation under the Act. Decision making under the Electronic Money Regulations
EG 19.23.7
1The RDC is the FCA's decision maker for some of the decisions under the Electronic Money Regulations as set out in DEPP 2 Annex 1G. The RDC will make its decisions following the procedure set out in DEPP 3.2 or, where appropriate, DEPP 3.3 and 3.4. DEPP 3.4 applies for urgent notices under regulation 11(6), (9) and (10)(b) (including as applied by regulation 15). EG 19.23.8
1For decisions made by executive procedures the procedures to be followed will be those described in DEPP 4. EG 19.23.9
1The Electronic Money Regulations do not require the FCA to have published procedures to commence criminal prosecutions. However, in these situations the FCA expects that it will normally follow its decision-making procedures for the equivalent decisions under the Act. EG 19.23.10
1The Electronic Money Regulations require the FCA to give third party rights as set out in section 393 of the Act and to give access to material as set out in section 394 of the Act in certain cases. EG 19.23.11
1Certain FCA decisions (for example the cancellation of an authorisation or the imposition of a financial penalty) may be referred to the Tribunal by an aggrieved party. Imposition of penalties under the Electronic Money Regulations
EG 19.23.12
1When determining whether to take action to impose a penalty the FCA's policy includes having regard to the relevant factors in DEPP 6.2 and DEPP 6.4. When determining the level of a financial penalty the FCA's policy includes having regard to relevant principles and factors in DEPP 6.5 to 6.5D. EG 19.23.13
1When determining whether to suspend the authorisation or, as the case may be, the registration of an electronic money institution or limit or otherwise restrict the carrying on of electronic money issuance or payments services business by an electronic money issuer the FCA's policy will have regard to the relevant factors in DEPP 6A. EG 19.23.14
1As with cases under the Act, the FCA may settle or mediate appropriate cases involving civil breaches of the Electronic Money Regulations to assist it to exercise its functions under the Regulations in the most efficient and economic way. See DEPP 5, DEPP 6.7 and EG 5 for further information on the settlement process and the settlement discount scheme. Statement of policy in section 169(7) interviews (as implemented by the Electronic Money Regulations)
EG 19.23.15
1The Electronic Money Regulations apply section 169 of the Act which requires the FCA to publish a statement of policy on the conduct of certain interviews in response to requests from overseas regulators. For the purposes of the Electronic Money Regulations the FCA will follow the procedures described in DEPP 7. EG 19.24 1Cross-Border Payments in Euro Regulations 2010
EG 19.24.1
1The Cross-Border Payments in Euro Regulations lay down rules on cross-border payments in euros, to ensure that compliance with the EU Cross-Border Regulation is guaranteed by effective, proportionate and dissuasive sanctions. The main aim of the EU Cross-Border Regulation is to ensure that the charges for cross-border payments in euro are equal to the charges for identical national payments in euro within a Member State. The Cross-Border Payments in Euro Regulations give the FCA investigation and sanctioning powers in relation to breaches of the EU Cross-Border Regulation, including: the power to require information
the power of public censure; and
the power to impose financial penalties.
EG 19.24.2
1The FCA's policy for using the powers given to it by the Cross-Border Payments in Euro Regulations is the same as its policy for using the equivalent powers given to it by the Payment Services Regulations, set out in EG 19.20.1 to 19.22.8, as, for the most part, these powers are very similar. As the Payment Services Regulations, for the most part, mirror the FCA's investigative, sanctioning and regulatory powers under the Act, the FCA will therefore adopt enforcement procedures akin to those used under the Act. EG 19.25 2
Recognised Auction Platforms Regulations 2011
EG 19.25.1
EG 19.26.1
1The FCA has information gathering and sanctioning powers under the Act which are applicable to breaches of EMIR requirements by authorised persons or recognised bodies. The OTC derivatives, CCPs and trade repositories regulation adds to the powers available to the FCA for dealing with breaches of EMIR requirements and sets out information gathering and sanctioning powers enabling the FCA to investigate and take action for breaches of the EMIR requirements by non- authorised counterparties and for certain breaches of the OTC derivatives, CCPs and trade repositories regulation by authorised persons. Such powers under the OTC derivatives, CCPs and trade repositories regulation or the Act do not extend to breaches of article 11(3) and (4) of EMIR by PRA-authorised financial counterparties. Information gathering powers
EG 19.26.2
EG 19.26.3
(1) 1The FCA has the power to publish a statement or impose a financial penalty of such amount as it considers appropriate on: (a) a financial counterparty who is not an authorised person, a non- financial counterparty or any other person who has breached an EMIR requirement or regulation 7 or 8 of the OTC derivatives, CCPs and trade repositories regulation; (b) a financial counterparty who is an authorised person who has breached regulation 8 of the OTC derivatives, CCPs and trade repositories regulation. (2) Where the FCA exercises its power to impose a financial penalty under the OTC derivatives, CCPs and trade repositories regulation or the Act for breaches in relation to EMIR a penalty, it must publish a statement to that effect unless such disclosure would seriously jeopardise the financial markets or cause disproportionate damage to the parties involved. [Note: article 12(2) of EMIR and regulation 9(3) of the OTC derivatives, CCPs and trade repositories regulation] EG 19.26.4
1As the power to impose penalties for contravention of an EMIR requirement or regulations 7 or 8 of the OTC derivatives, CCPs and trade repositories regulation mirrors similar powers to that the FCA has under the Act, the FCA will adopt procedures and policies in relation to the use of those powers akin to those it has adopted under the Act, subject to EG 19.26.3(2). EG 19.26.5
1The FCA will use the sanctioning powers where it is appropriate to do so and with regard to the relevant factors listed in DEPP 6.2.1G and DEPP 6.4. In determining the appropriate level of financial penalty, the FCA will have regard to the principles set out in DEPP 6.5, DEPP 6.5A, DEPP 6.5B, DEPP 6.5D and DEPP 6.7. EG 19.26.6
1Where the FCA proposes or decides to take action to publish a statement or impose a financial penalty referred to in EG 19.26.3, it will give the person concerned a warning notice or a decision notice respectively. In the case of a public statement, the warning notice or decision notice will also set out the terms of the statement. In the case of a financial penalty, the warning notice or decision notice will also state the amount of the penalty. On receiving a warning notice, the person concerned has a right to make representations regarding the FCA's proposed decision. A person that receives a decision notice may refer the matter to the Tribunal. EG 19.26.7
1If it is proposing to publish a statement or impose a penalty under the OTC derivatives, CCPs and trade repositories regulation, the FCA's decision maker will be the RDC. The RDC will make its decisions following the procedure set out in DEPP 3.2 or where appropriate, DEPP 3.3. EG 19.26.8
Sections 393 and 394 of the Act apply to notices referred to in this section. See DEPP 2.4 (Third party rights and access to FCA material). EG 19.26.9
1In relation to the notices in this section, the FCA will, subject to EG 19.26.3(2), apply the approach to publicity that is outlined in EG 6. EG 19.26.10
1In relation to authorised persons and recognised bodies which are subject to obligations under EMIR, other information gathering powers and sanctions may also be applicable under the Act. EG 19.27 2
EG 19.27.1
EG 19.27.2
2The AIFMD UK regulation includes information gathering and sanctioning powers that enable the FCA to investigate and take action for breaches of the regulations and directly applicable EU regulations. Specific standalone powers are in the AIFMD UK regulation for unauthorised AIFMs, by applying relevant sections of the Act. Amendments to the Act, including those made under the Financial Services and Markets Act (Qualifying EU Provisions) Order 2013, extend certain FCA powers (e.g. disciplinary powers, injunctions and restitution) so that they apply to contraventions of requirements of the AIFMD UK regulation and to contraventions of directly applicable EU regulations. Information gathering and investigation powers
EG 19.27.3
2The FCA has decided that its approach to enforcing the AIFMD UK regulation requirements will mirror its general approach to enforcing the Act in EG 2. Therefore, the FCA will apply the same procedures and policies under the Act for appointing investigators and requiring information for breaches of the AIFMD UK regulation. EG 19.27.4
2The new powers under the AIFMD UK regulation include powers of direction and the power to revoke the registration of small registered UK AIFMs, including a EuSEF manager or a EuVECA manager and, in some circumstances, EEA managers of a qualifying social entrepreneurship fund or a qualifying venture capital fund, respectively. EG 19.27.5
2The FCA will respect the principle of proportionality when taking action against EuSEF or EuVECA managers for breaches identified in articles 22 and 21 of the directly applicable EuSEF regulation and EuVECA regulation, respectively. The FCA may take action to ensure compliance with the regulations or prohibit the use of the designation of EuSEF manager or EuVECA manager and revoke registration of such managers. The prohibition route is more likely to apply to serious breaches of the EU regulations such as in situations where: registration has been obtained through false statements or any other irregular means; or
EG 19.27.6
2The RDC is the FCA's decision maker for some decisions under the AIFMD UK regulation, as set out in DEPP 2 Annex 1G. The RDC will make its decisions following the procedure in DEPP 3.2 or, where appropriate, DEPP 3.3 and 3.4. For decisions made by executive procedures, the procedures to be followed are in DEPP 4. EG 19.27.7
EG 19.27.8
2The AIFMD UK regulation applies the procedural provisions of Part and Part 26 of the Act for matters that can be referred to the Tribunal and to warning and decision notices under the regulations as it applies to referrals and notices under the Act. The AIFMD UK regulation also applies sections 205 and 206 of the Act to unauthorised AIFMs and, accordingly, the FCA will give third party rights (section 393 of the Act) and access to material (section 394 of the Act). Imposition of penalties under the AIFMD UK regulation
EG 19.27.9
2When determining whether to take action to impose a penalty under the AIFMD UK regulation, the FCA's policy includes having regard to the relevant factors in DEPP 6.2 and DEPP 6.4. When determining the level of financial penalty, the FCA's policy includes having regard to relevant principles and factors in DEPP 6.5 to 6.5A, DEPP 6.5B, DEPP 6.5D and DEPP 6.7. EG 19.27.10
2As with cases under the Act, the FCA may settle or mediate appropriate cases involving civil breaches of the AIFMD UK regulation to assist it to exercise its functions. DEPP 5, DEPP 6.7 and EG 5 set out information on the FCA's settlement process and the settlement discount scheme. EG 19.27.11
2The FCA will apply the approach to publicity that is outlined in EG 6. Statement of Policy in section 169(7) interviews (as applied by the AIFMD UK regulation)
EG 19.27.12
2Regulation 71(2) of the AIFMD UK regulation applies section 169 of the Act in respect of unauthorised AIFMs, which requires the FCA to have a statement of policy on the conduct of certain interviews in response to requests from overseas regulators. The FCA will follow the procedures described in DEPP 7. EG 19.28 1
EG 19.28.1
1The Referral Fees Regulations give the FCA investigation and sanctioning powers in relation to the contravention of the rules against referral fees contained in sections 56 to 60 of the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (the LASPO Act), as well as the contravention of requirements imposed by, or under, the Referral Fees Regulations. EG 19.28.2
1The FCA's approach to taking enforcement action under the Referral Fees Regulations will mirror its general approach to enforcing the Act, as set out in EG 2. It will seek to exercise its enforcement powers in a manner that is transparent, proportionate and responsive to the issue and consistent with its publicly stated policies. It will also seek to ensure fair treatment when exercising its enforcement powers. Finally, it will aim to change the behaviour of the person who is the subject of its action, to deter future non-compliance by others, to eliminate any financial gain or benefit from non-compliance and, where appropriate, to remedy the harm caused by the non-compliance. EG 19.28.3
1The Referral Fees Regulations, for the most part, mirror the FCA's investigative and sanctioning powers under the Act. The FCA has adopted procedures and policies for the use of those powers that are akin to those it has under the Act. Key features of the FCA's approach are described below. Information gathering and investigation powers
EG 19.28.4
1The Referral Fees Regulations apply much of Part 11 of the Act. The effect of this is to apply the same procedures under the Act for appointing investigators and requiring information when investigating contraventions of the relevant provisions of the LASPO Act or the Referral Fees Regulations. EG 19.28.5
1The FCA will notify the subject of the investigation that it has appointed investigators to carry out an investigation under the Referral Fees Regulations and the reasons for the appointment, unless notification is likely to result in the investigation being frustrated. In most cases, the FCA expects to carry out a scoping visit early on in the enforcement process. The FCA's policy in civil investigations under the Referral Fees Regulations is to use powers to compel information, in the same way as it would in the course of an investigation under the Act. Decision making under the Referral Fees Regulations
EG 19.28.6
1The RDC is the FCA's decision maker for decisions which require warning notices or decision notices to be given under the Referral Fees Regulations, as set out in DEPP 2 Annex 1G. The RDC will make its decisions following the procedure set out in DEPP 3.2 or, where appropriate, DEPP 3.3. EG 19.28.7
1The Referral Fees Regulations do not require the FCA to publish procedures to commence criminal prosecutions. However, the FCA will normally follow its equivalent decision-making procedures for similar decisions under the Act, as set out in EG 12. EG 19.28.8
1The Referral Fees Regulations do not require the FCA to publish procedures to apply to the court for an injunction or restitution order. However, the FCA will normally follow its equivalent decision-making procedures for similar decisions under the Act, as set out in EG 10 and EG 11. EG 19.28.9
1The Referral Fees Regulations apply sections 393 and 394 of the Act to warning notices and decision notices given under the Referral Fees Regulations and so require the FCA to give third party rights and to give access to material. EG 19.28.10
1The Referral Fees Regulations apply the procedural provisions of Part 9 of the Act, as modified by the Referral Fees Regulations, in respect of matters that can be referred to the Tribunal. Referral to the Tribunal in respect of decision notices given under regulation 26(1) of the Referral Fees Regulations are treated as disciplinary referrals for the purpose of section 133 of the Act. Public censures, imposition of penalties and the impositions of suspensions or restrictions under the Referral Fees Regulations
EG 19.28.11
1When determining whether to take action to impose a penalty or to issue a public censure under the Referral Fees Regulations, the FCA's policy includes having regard to the relevant factors in DEPP 6.2 and DEPP 6.4. When determining the level of financial penalty, the FCA's policy includes having regard to the relevant principles and factors in DEPP 6.5 to 6.5B, DEPP 6.5D and DEPP 6.7. EG 19.28.12
1As with cases under the Act, the FCA may settle or mediate appropriate cases involving civil breaches of the Referral Fees Regulations to assist it to exercise its functions. DEPP 5, DEPP 6.7 and EG 5 set out information on the FCA's settlement process and the settlement discount scheme. EG 19.28.13
1When determining whether to take action to impose a suspension or restriction under the Referral Fees Regulations, the FCA's policy includes having regard to the relevant factors in DEPP 6A.2 and 6A.4. When determining the length of the period of suspension or restriction, the FCA's policy includes having regard to the relevant principles and factors in DEPP 6A.3. However, the FCA does not have the power to suspend an authorised person’spermission under the Referral Fees Regulations. EG 19.28.14
1The FCA will apply the approach to publicity that is outlined in EG 6. EG 19.29 1
Immigration Act 2014 (Bank Account) Regulations 2014
EG 19.29.1
1The Immigration Regulations give the FCA investigation and sanctioning powers in relation to the contravention of section 40 of the Immigration Act 2014 (the Immigration Act), as well as the contravention of requirements imposed by, or under, the Immigration Regulations. EG 19.29.2
1The FCA's approach to taking enforcement action under the Immigration Regulations will mirror its general approach to enforcing the Act, as set out in EG 2. It will seek to exercise its enforcement powers in a manner that is transparent, proportionate and responsive to the issue and consistent with its publicly stated policies. It will also seek to ensure fair treatment when exercising its enforcement powers. Finally, it will aim to change the behaviour of the person who is the subject of its action, to deter future non-compliance by others, to eliminate any financial gain or benefit from non-compliance and, where appropriate, to remedy the harm caused by the non-compliance. EG 19.29.3
1The Immigration Regulations, for the most part, mirror the FCA's investigative and sanctioning powers under the Act. The FCA has adopted procedures and policies for the use of those powers that are akin to those it has under the Act. Key features of the FCA's approach are described below. Information gathering and investigation powers
EG 19.29.4
1The Immigration Regulations apply much of Part 11 of the Act. The effect of this is to apply the same procedures under the Act for appointing investigators and requiring information when investigating contraventions of the relevant provisions of the Immigration Act or the Immigration Regulations. EG 19.29.5
1The FCA will notify the subject of the investigation that it has appointed investigators to carry out an investigation under the Immigration Regulations and the reasons for the appointment, unless notification is likely to result in the investigation being frustrated. In most cases, the FCA expects to carry out a scoping visit early on in the enforcement process. The FCA's policy in civil investigations under the Immigration Regulations is to use powers to compel information, in the same way as it would in the course of an investigation under the Act. Decision making under the Immigration Regulations
EG 19.29.6
1The RDC is the FCA’s decision maker for decisions which require warning notices or decision notices to be given under the Immigration Regulations, as set out in DEPP 2 Annex 1G. The RDC will make its decisions following the procedure set out in DEPP 3.2 or, where appropriate, DEPP 3.3. EG 19.29.7
1The Immigration Regulations do not require the FCA to publish procedures to commence criminal prosecutions. However, the FCA will normally follow its equivalent decision-making procedures for similar decisions under the Act, as set out in EG 12. EG 19.29.8
1The Immigration Regulations apply sections 393 and 394 of the Act to warning notices and decision notices given under the Immigration Regulations and so require the FCA to give third party rights and to give access to material. EG 19.29.9
1The Immigration Regulations apply the procedural provisions of Part 9 of the Act, as modified by the Immigration Regulations, in respect of matters that can be referred to the Tribunal. Referral to the Tribunal in respect of decision notices given under regulation 25(1) of the Immigration Regulations are treated as disciplinary referrals for the purpose of section 133 of the Act. Public censures, imposition of penalties and the impositions of suspensions or restrictions under the Immigration Regulations
EG 19.29.10
1When determining whether to take action to impose a penalty or to issue a public censure under the Immigration Regulations, the FCA’s policy includes having regard to the relevant factors in DEPP 6.2 and DEPP 6.4. When determining the level of financial penalty, the FCA’s policy includes having regard to the relevant principles and factors in DEPP 6.5 to DEPP 6.5B, DEPP 6.5D and DEPP 6.7. EG 19.29.11
1As with cases under the Act, the FCA may settle or mediate appropriate cases involving civil breaches of the Immigration Regulations to assist it to exercise its functions. DEPP 5, DEPP 6.7 and EG 5 set out information on the FCA’s settlement process and the settlement discount scheme. EG 19.29.12
1When determining whether to take action to impose a suspension or restriction under the Immigration Regulations, the FCA's policy includes having regard to the relevant factors in DEPP 6A.2 and 6A.4. When determining the length of the period of suspension or restriction, the FCA's policy includes having regard to the relevant principles and factors in DEPP 6A.3. EG 19.29.13
1The FCA will apply the approach to publicity that is outlined in EG 6. EG 19.30 The Mortgage Credit Directive Order21
EG 19.30.1
EG 19.30.2
EG 19.30.3
EG 19.30.4
EG 19.30.5
EG 19.30.6
EG 19.30.7
EG 19.30.8
EG 19.30.9
EG 19.30.10
1Article 18(3) applies sections 393 and 394 of the Act to warning notices and decision notices given under the MCDO and so require the FCA to give third party rights and to give access to material as set out under the Act. Article 24(1) applies the procedural provisions of Part 9 of the Act, in respect of matters that can be referred to the Tribunal, and article 24(2) applies Part 26 of the Act to warning and decision notices given under the MCDO. 1Public censures, imposition of penalties and the impositions of suspensions under the MCDO EG 19.30.11
EG 19.30.12
EG 19.30.13
EG 19.30.14
EG 19.31.1
EG 19.31.2
EG 19.31.3
EG 19.31.4
EG 19.31.5
EG 19.31.6
EG 19.31.7
EG 19.31.8
EG 19.31.9
EG 19.31.10
EG 19.32.1
1The Payment Accounts Regulations 2015 (“the PARs”) implement the Payment Accounts Directive. They entitle consumers who hold a payment account (such as a current account) to receive certain information about the fees and charges applied to that account. They also entitle consumers to use a switching service which meets certain minimum standards, if they wish to change their payment account to another provider. EG 19.32.2
EG 19.32.3
EG 19.32.4
EG 19.32.5
EG 19.32.6
EG 19.32.7
EG 19.32.8
EG 19.32.9
Public censures and the imposition of penalties EG 19.32.10
EG 19.32.11
EG 19.32.12
EG 19.33.1
EG 19.33.2
As the provision of credit data on companies is not a regulated activity under the Act, the Regulations create a separate monitoring and enforcement regime but apply, or make provision corresponding to, certain aspects of the Act. The FCA's approach to taking enforcement action under the Regulations will reflect its general approach to enforcing the Act, as set out in EG 2. It will seek to exercise its enforcement powers in a manner that is transparent, proportionate and responsive to the issue and consistent with its publicly stated policies. It will also seek to ensure fair treatment when exercising its enforcement powers. Information gathering and investigation powers
EG 19.33.3
Regulation 23 of the Small and Medium Sized Business (Finance Platforms) Regulations applies many of the provisions of the Act in relation to the FCA’s investigation and information-gathering powers in respect of designated banks and designated finance platforms. The effect of this is to apply the same procedures under the Act for appointing investigators and requiring information when investigating any breaches of the Small and Medium Sized Business (Finance Platforms) Regulations. EG 19.33.4
EG 19.33.5
EG 19.33.6
Regulation 43 of the Small and Medium Sized Business (Finance Platforms) Regulations applies to the procedural provisions of Part 9 of the Act, in respect of matters that can be referred to the Tribunal, and regulation 41 of the Small and Medium Sized Business (Finance Platforms) Regulations applies to Part 26 of the Act to warning and decision notices given under the Small and Medium Sized Business (Finance Platforms) Regulations. Public censures, imposition of penalties and the impositions of restrictions under the Small and Medium Sized Business (Finance Platforms) Regulations
EG 19.33.7
EG 19.33.8
EG 19.33.9
EG 19.33.10