The competent authority shall, within the first month of receipt of the declaration and accompanying documents, endeavour to inform the applicant of the outcome of such a check.

Where there is a difficulty which would result in delay of that decision, the competent authority shall send a duly substantiated request for further information to the applicant within that one month period in paragraph (1) stating the reason for the delay and the timescale for its decision.

In the event of a delay being notified to the applicant pursuant to paragraph (2), the competent authority shall make a decision within the second month of the receipt of completed documentation.

Where the competent authority gives the applicant the opportunity under regulation 15(1) to show that he has acquired the knowledge and competence lacking, the competent authority shall give the applicant that opportunity within one month of the decision referred to in paragraph (1) or (3).

In the absence of a reaction from the competent authority within the periods stipulated in paragraphs (1), (3) and (4), the applicant may provide the services in the United Kingdom.