Financial Services and Markets Act 2000

Part XIIIU.K. Incoming Firms: Intervention by [F1FCA or PRA]

Textual Amendments

F1Words in Pt. 13 heading substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 30 (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1Pt. 13 modified (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3592, arts. 1(2), 114(3)(a) (with art. 23(2))

Pt. 13 extended (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/2636, arts. 1(2)(b), 32; S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

Pt. 13 extended (5.10.2001 for specified purposes otherwise 1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3084, art. 2(7); S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

Pt 13 excluded (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3592, art. 107(2) (with art. 23(2))

InterpretationU.K.

193 Interpretation of this Part.U.K.

(1)In this Part—

  • additional procedure” means the procedure described in section 199;

  • incoming firm” means—

    (a)

    an EEA firm which is exercising, or has exercised, its right to carry on a regulated activity in the United Kingdom in accordance with Schedule 3; or

    (aa)

    [F2an EEAUCITS which is a recognised scheme under section 264; or]

    (b)

    a Treaty firm which is exercising, or has exercised, its right to carry on a regulated activity in the United Kingdom in accordance with Schedule 4; and

  • power of intervention” means the power conferred on [F3the FCA or the PRA] by section 196.

[F4(1A)In the definition of “incoming firm” references to an EEAUCITS include, in a case where the UCITS is not a body corporate, references to its management company.]

(2)In relation to an incoming firm which is an EEA firm [F5or an EEAUCITS], expressions used in this Part and in Schedule 3 have the same meaning in this Part as they have in that Schedule.

Textual Amendments

F2S. 193(1): in definition of "incoming firm" para (aa) inserted after para. (a) (1.7.2011) by The Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/1613), reg. 2(7)(a)

F3Words in s. 193(1) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 31 (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F4S. 193(1A) inserted (1.7.2011) by The Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/1613), reg. 2(7)(b)

F5Words in s. 193(2) inserted (1.7.2011) by The Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/1613), reg. 2(7)(c)

194 General grounds on which power of intervention is exercisable.U.K.

(1)The [F6appropriate regulator] may exercise its power of intervention in respect of an incoming firm if it appears to it that—

(a)the firm has contravened, or is likely to contravene, a requirement which is imposed on it by or under this Act (in a case where the [F6appropriate regulator] is responsible for enforcing compliance in the United Kingdom);

(b)the firm has, in purported compliance with any requirement imposed by or under this Act, knowingly or recklessly given the [F6appropriate regulator] information which is false or misleading in a material particular; or

[F7(c)it is desirable to exercise the power in order to [F8advance—

(i)in the case of the FCA, one or more of its operational objectives, and

(ii)in the case of the PRA, any of its objectives.]]

[F9(1A)For the purposes of subsection (1)(c) it does not matter whether there is a relationship between the incoming firm and the persons whose interests will be protected by the exercise of the power of intervention.]

[F10(1B)The “appropriate regulator” means—

(a)where the incoming firm is a PRA-authorised person, the FCA or the PRA;

(b)in any other case, the FCA.]

(2)Subsection (3) applies to an incoming EEA firm falling within sub-paragraph (a) or (b) of paragraph 5 of Schedule 3 which is exercising an EEA right to carry on any Consumer Credit Act business in the United Kingdom.

(3)The [F11FCA] may exercise its power of intervention in respect of the firm if [F12the Office of Fair Trading] has informed the [F11FCA] that—

(a)the firm,

(b)any of the firm’s employees, agents or associates (whether past or present), or

(c)if the firm is a body corporate, a controller of the firm or an associate of such a controller,

has done any of the things specified in paragraphs [F13(a) to (e) of section 25(2A)] of the M1Consumer Credit Act 1974.

(4)Associate”, “Consumer Credit Act business” and “controller” have the same meaning as in section 203.

Textual Amendments

F6Words in s. 194(1) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 32(2)(a) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F7S. 194(1)(c) substituted (8.6.2010) by Financial Services Act 2010 (c. 28), ss. 3(5)(a), 26(2)

F8Words in s. 194(1)(c) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 32(2)(b) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F9S. 194(1A) inserted (8.6.2010) by Financial Services Act 2010 (c. 28), ss. 3(5)(b), 26(2)

F10S. 194(1B) inserted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 32(3) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F11Word in s. 194(3) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 32(4) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F12Words in s. 194(3) substituted (1.4.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), ss. 278, 279, Sch. 25 para. 40(6); S.I. 2003/766, art. 2, Sch. (with art. 3)

F13Words in s. 194(3) substituted (6.4.2008) by Consumer Credit Act 2006 (c. 14), ss. 33(7), 71(2); S.I. 2007/3300, art. 3(2), Sch. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C2S. 194 applied (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3592, arts. 1(2), 12(3)(b), 18(4)(b), 21(3) (with art. 23(2))

S. 194 amended (temp. from 3.9.2001 to 1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/2659, arts. 1(2), 3(5); S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

Commencement Information

I1S. 194 wholly in force at 1.12.2001; s. 194 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 431(2); s. 194 in force for specified purposes at 3.9.2001 by S.I. 2001/2632, art. 2(2), Sch. Pt. 2; s. 194 in force in so far as not already in force at 1.12.2001 by S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

Marginal Citations

[F14194A Contravention by relevant EEA firm with UK branch of requirement under markets in financial instruments directive: [F15appropriate regulator] primarily responsible for securing compliance U.K.

(1)This section applies if—

(a) a relevant EEA firm has a branch in the United Kingdom; and

(b)[F16the appropriate regulator] ascertains that the firm has contravened, or is contravening, a requirement falling within subsection (3) (in a case to which Article 62.2 of the markets in financial instruments directive applies).

(2)Relevant EEA firm” means an EEA firm falling within paragraph 5(a) or (b) of Schedule 3 which is exercising in the United Kingdom an EEA right deriving from the markets in financial instruments directive.

(3)A requirement falls within this subsection if it is imposed on the firm—

(a)by any provision of or made under this Act which implements the markets in financial instruments directive; or

(b)by any directly applicable Community regulation made under that directive.

(4)[F16The appropriate regulator] must give the firm written notice which—

(a)requires the firm to put an end to the contravention;

(b)states that [F16the appropriate regulator's] power of intervention will become exercisable in relation to the firm if the firm continues the contravention; and

(c)indicates any requirements that [F16the appropriate regulator] proposes to impose on the firm in exercise of its power of intervention in the event of the power becoming exercisable.

(5)[F16The appropriate regulator] may exercise its power of intervention in respect of the firm if—

(a)a reasonable time has expired since the giving of the notice under subsection (4);

(b)the firm has failed to put an end to the contravention within that time; and

(c)[F16the appropriate regulator] has informed the firm's home state regulator of its intention to exercise its power of intervention in respect of the firm.

(6)Subsection (5) applies whether or not [F16the appropriate regulator's] power of intervention is also exercisable as a result of section 194.

(7) If [F16the appropriate regulator] exercises its power of intervention in respect of a relevant EEA firm by virtue of subsection (5), it must at the earliest opportunity inform the firm's home state regulator [F17 , ESMA] and the Commission of—

(a)the fact that [F16the appropriate regulator] has exercised that power in respect of the firm; and

(b)any requirements it has imposed on the firm in exercise of the power.]

[F18(8) If the firm has failed to put an end to the contravention as described in subsection (5)(b), [F16the appropriate regulator] may refer the matter to ESMA (and ESMA may act in accordance with the powers conferred on it under Article 19 of Regulation ( EU ) No. 1095/2010 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 November 2010 establishing a European Supervisory Authority (European Securities and Markets Authority)).]

[F19(9)Subsection (4) is not to be regarded as requiring the PRA to take action in relation to the contravention of a requirement falling within subsection (3) in a case where it is satisfied that the FCA is required to act, and is acting or has acted, under subsection (4)—

(a)in relation to that requirement, or

(b)where that requirement is imposed by rules made by the PRA, in relation to an identical requirement imposed by rules made by the FCA.

(10)The appropriate regulator” means—

(a)where the relevant EEA firm is a PRA-authorised person, the FCA or, subject to subsection (9), the PRA;

(b)in any other case, the FCA.]

Textual Amendments

F15Words in s. 194A heading substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 33(4) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F16Words in s. 194A substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 33(2) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F19S. 194A(9)(10) inserted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 33(3) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C3S. 194A(7) modified by S.I. 2001/3084, art. 2(8)(a) (as inserted (24.8.2012) by The Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Gibraltar) (Amendment) Order 2012 (S.I. 2012/2017), arts. 1, 2(2)(e))

195 Exercise of power in support of overseas regulator.U.K.

(1)The [F20appropriate regulator] may exercise its power of intervention in respect of an incoming firm at the request of, or for the purpose of assisting, an overseas regulator.

(2)Subsection (1) applies whether or not the [F21appropriate regulator's] power of intervention is also exercisable as a result of section 194.

[F22(2A)“The appropriate regulator” means—

(a)where the incoming firm is a PRA-authorised person, the FCA or the PRA;

(b)in any other case, the FCA.]

(3)An overseas regulator” means an authority in a country or territory outside the United Kingdom—

(a)which is a home state regulator; or

(b)which exercises any function of a kind mentioned in subsection (4).

(4)The functions are—

(a)a function corresponding to any function of [F23either regulator] under this Act;

F24(b). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(c)a function corresponding to any function exercised by the Secretary of State under [F25the Companies Acts (as defined in section 2 of the Companies Act 2006)];

(d)a function in connection with —

(i)the investigation of conduct of the kind prohibited by Part V of the M2Criminal Justice Act 1993 (insider dealing); or

(ii)the enforcement of rules (whether or not having the force of law) relating to such conduct;

(e)a function prescribed by regulations made for the purposes of this subsection which, in the opinion of the Treasury, relates to companies or financial services.

(5)If—

(a)a request to the [F26appropriate regulator] for the exercise of its power of intervention has been made by a home state regulator in pursuance of [F27an EU] obligation, or

(b)a home state regulator has notified the [F26appropriate regulator] that an EEA firm’s EEA authorisation has been withdrawn,

the [F26appropriate regulator] must, in deciding whether or not to exercise its power of intervention, consider whether exercising it is necessary in order to comply with [F27an EU] obligation.

(6)In deciding in any case in which the [F26appropriate regulator] does not consider that the exercise of its power of intervention is necessary in order to comply with [F27an EU] obligation, it may take into account in particular—

(a)whether in the country or territory of the overseas regulator concerned, corresponding assistance would be given to a United Kingdom regulatory authority;

(b)whether the case concerns the breach of a law, or other requirement, which has no close parallel in the United Kingdom or involves the assertion of a jurisdiction not recognised by the United Kingdom;

(c)the seriousness of the case and its importance to persons in the United Kingdom;

(d)whether it is otherwise appropriate in the public interest to give the assistance sought.

(7)The [F26appropriate regulator] may decide not to exercise its power of intervention, in response to a request, unless the regulator concerned undertakes to make such contribution to the cost of its exercise as the [F26appropriate regulator] considers appropriate.

(8)Subsection (7) does not apply if the [F26appropriate regulator] decides that it is necessary for it to exercise its power of intervention in order to comply with [F27an EU] obligation.

Textual Amendments

F20Words in s. 195(1) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 34(2) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F21Words in s. 195(2) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 34(3) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F22S. 195(2A) inserted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 34(4) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F23Words in s. 195(4)(a) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 34(5)(a) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F24S. 195(4)(b) omitted (24.1.2013 for specified purposes, 27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), ss. 16(14)(h), 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 34(5)(b) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/113, art. 2(1)(c), Sch. Pt. 3; S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F26Words in s. 195(5)-(8) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 34(6) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F27Words in s. 195(5)(6)(8) substituted (22.4.2011 with application in accordance with art. 3 of the amending S.I.) by virtue of The Treaty of Lisbon (Changes in Terminology) Order 2011 (S.I. 2011/1043), art. 6(1)(3)(4)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C5S. 195 amended (temp. from 3.9.2001 to 1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/2659, arts. 1(2), 3(5); S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

Commencement Information

I2S. 195 wholly in force at 1.12.2001; s. 195 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 431(2); s. 195 in force for specified purposes at 3.9.2001 by S.I. 2001/2632, art. 2(2), Sch. Pt. 2; s. 195 in force in so far as not already in force at 1.12.2001 by S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

Marginal Citations

[F28195AContravention by relevant EEA firm or EEA UCITS of directive requirements: home state regulator primarily responsible for securing complianceU.K.

(1)This section applies if [F29the appropriate regulator] has clear and demonstrable grounds for believing—

(a) that a relevant EEA firm has contravened, or is contravening, a requirement falling within subsection (2) (in a case to which Article 62.1 or 62.3 of the markets in financial instruments directive applies);

(b)that a relevant EEA UCITS has contravened, or is contravening, a requirement falling within subsection (3) (in a case to which Article 108.4 of the UCITS directive applies).

(2)A requirement falls within this subsection if it is imposed on the firm—

(a)by or under any provision adopted in the firm's home state for the purpose of implementing the markets in financial instruments directive; or

(b)by any directly applicable Community regulation made under that directive.

(3)A requirement falls within this subsection if it is imposed on the EEA UCITS

(a)by or under any provision adopted in the home state of the EEA UCITS for the purpose of implementing the UCITS directive; or

(b)by any directly applicable Community regulation or decision made under that directive.

(4)[F29The appropriate regulator] must notify the home state regulator of the firm or EEA UCITS in writing of the situation mentioned in subsection (1).

(5)The notice under subsection (4) must—

(a)request that the home state regulator take all appropriate measures for the purpose of ensuring that the firm or EEA UCITS puts an end to the contravention;

(b)state that [F29the appropriate regulator's] powers of intervention are likely to become exercisable in relation to the firm or EEA UCITS if it continues the contravention; and

(c)indicate any requirements that [F29the appropriate regulator] proposes to impose on the firm or EEA UCITS in exercise of its power of intervention in the event of the power becoming exercisable.

(6)[F29The appropriate regulator] may exercise its power of intervention in respect of the firm or EEA UCITS if—

(a)a reasonable time has expired since the giving of the notice under subsection (4); and

(b)conditions A to C are satisfied.

(7)Condition A is that—

(a)the home state regulator of the firm or EEA UCITS has failed or refused to take measures for the purpose mentioned in subsection (5)(a); or

(b)any measures taken by the home state regulator have proved inadequate for that purpose.

(8)Condition B is that the firm or EEA UCITS is acting in a manner which is clearly prejudicial to the interests of investors in the United Kingdom or the orderly functioning of the markets.

(9)Condition C is that [F29the appropriate regulator] has informed the home state regulator of the firm or EEA UCITS of its intention to exercise its power of intervention in respect of the firm or EEA UCITS.

(10)Subsection (6) applies whether or not [F29the appropriate regulator's] power of intervention is also exercisable as a result of section 194 or 195.

(11)If [F29the appropriate regulator] exercises its power of intervention in respect of a relevant EEA firm or EEA UCITS by virtue of subsection (6), it must at the earliest opportunity inform [F30ESMA and] the Commission of—

(a)the fact that [F29the appropriate regulator] has exercised that power in respect of that firm or EEA UCITS; and

(b)any requirements it has imposed on the firm or EEA UCITS in exercise of the power.

[F31(11A) If circumstances exist which enable [F29the appropriate regulator] to exercise its power of intervention under subsection (6), [F29the appropriate regulator] may refer the matter to ESMA (and ESMA may act in accordance with the powers conferred on it under Article 19 of Regulation ( EU ) No. 1095/2010 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 November 2010 establishing a European Supervisory Authority (European Securities and Markets Authority)).]

[F32(11B)Subsection (4) is not to be regarded as requiring the PRA to notify the home state regulator in relation to the contravention of a requirement falling within subsection (2) or (3) in a case where the PRA is satisfied that the FCA is required to act, and is acting or has acted, under subsection (4) in relation to that requirement.]

(12)In this section—

  • [F33the appropriate regulator” means—

    (a)

    where the relevant EEA firm is a PRA-authorised person, the FCA or, subject to subsection (11B), the PRA;

    (b)

    in any other case, the FCA;]

  • home state” means—

    (a)

    in relation to a relevant EEA firm—

    (i)

    in the case of a firm which is a body corporate, the EEA State in which the firm has its registered office or, if it has no registered office, its head office; and

    (ii)

    in any other case, the EEA State in which the firm has its head office;

    (b)

    in relation to a relevant EEA UCITS, the EEA State in which the UCITS is authorised pursuant to Article 5 of the UCITS directive;

  • relevant EEA firm” means an EEA firm falling within paragraph 5(a) or (b) of Schedule 3 which is exercising in the United Kingdom a right deriving from the markets in financial instruments directive;

  • relevant EEA UCITS” means a UCITS which is authorised pursuant to Article 5 of the UCITS directive in an EEA State other than the United Kingdom, and references to an EEA UCITS include, in a case where the UCITS is not a body corporate, references to its management company.]

Textual Amendments

F28S. 195A substituted (1.7.2011) by The Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/1613), reg. 2(8)

F29Words in s. 195A substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 35(2) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F32S. 195A(11B) inserted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 35(3) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F33Words in s. 195A(12) inserted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 35(4) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C6S. 195A(11) excluded by S.I. 2001/3084, art. 2(8)(b) (as inserted (24.8.2012) by The Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Gibraltar) (Amendment) Order 2012 (S.I. 2012/2017), arts. 1, 2(2)(e))

[F34196 The power of intervention.U.K.

(1)If a regulator is entitled to exercise its power of intervention in respect of an incoming firm under this Part, it may impose any requirement in relation to the firm which that regulator could impose if—

(a)the firm's permission was a Part 4A permission; and

(b)the regulator was entitled to exercise its power under section 55L(3) or 55M(3).

(2)The FCA must consult the PRA before exercising its powers by virtue of this section in relation to—

(a)a PRA-authorised person, or

(b)a member of a group which includes a PRA-authorised person.

(3)The PRA must consult the FCA before exercising its powers by virtue of this section.]

Textual Amendments

F34S. 196 substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 36 (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

Exercise of power of interventionU.K.

197 Procedure on exercise of power of intervention.U.K.

(1)A requirement takes effect—

(a)immediately, if the notice given under subsection (3) states that that is the case;

(b)on such date as may be specified in the notice; or

(c)if no date is specified in the notice, when the matter to which it relates is no longer open to review.

(2)A requirement may be expressed to take effect immediately (or on a specified date) only if the [F35regulator], having regard to the ground on which it is exercising its power of intervention, considers that it is necessary for the requirement to take effect immediately (or on that date).

(3)If [F36a regulator] proposes to impose a requirement under section 196 on an incoming firm, or imposes such a requirement with immediate effect, it must give the firm written notice.

(4)The notice must—

(a)give details of the requirement;

(b)inform the firm of when the requirement takes effect;

(c)state the [F37regulator's] reasons for imposing the requirement and for its determination as to when the requirement takes effect;

(d)inform the firm that it may make representations to the [F38regulator] within such period as may be specified in the notice (whether or not it has referred the matter to the Tribunal); and

(e)inform it of its right to refer the matter to the Tribunal.

(5)The [F39regulator] may extend the period allowed under the notice for making representations.

(6)If, having considered any representations made by the firm, the [F39regulator] decides—

(a)to impose the requirement proposed, or

(b)if it has been imposed, not to rescind the requirement,

it must give it written notice.

(7)If, having considered any representations made by the firm, the [F39regulator] decides—

(a)not to impose the requirement proposed,

(b)to impose a different requirement from that proposed, or

(c)to rescind a requirement which has effect,

it must give it written notice.

(8)A notice given under subsection (6) must inform the firm of its right to refer the matter to the Tribunal.

(9)A notice under subsection (7)(b) must comply with subsection (4).

(10)If a notice informs a person of his right to refer a matter to the Tribunal, it must give an indication of the procedure on such a reference.

Textual Amendments

F35Word in s. 197(2) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 37(2) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F36Words in s. 197(3) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 37(3) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F37Word in s. 197(4)(c) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 37(4)(a) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F38Word in s. 197(4)(d) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 37(4)(b) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F39Word in s. 197(5)-(7) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 37(5) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C8S. 197 amended (temp. from 3.9.2001 to 1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/2659, arts. 1(2), 3(5); S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

S. 197 excluded (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3592, arts. 1(2), 61(4), 110(5), 115(4) (with art. 23(2))

C9S. 197(1)(c) excluded (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3592, arts. 1(2), 18(5), 21(4) (with art. 23(2))

C10S. 197(3) extended (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3592, arts. 1(2), 12(1), 18(1)(a), 20(1) (with art. 23(2))

S. 197(3) modified (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3592, arts. 1(2), 72(2) (with art. 23(2))

C11S. 197(7) extended (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3592, arts. 1(2), 23(1) (with art. 23(2))

Commencement Information

I3S. 197 wholly in force at 1.12.2001; s. 197 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 431(2); s. 197 in force for specified purposes at 3.9.2001 by S.I. 2001/2632, art. 2(2), Sch. Pt. 2; s. 197 in force in so far as not already in force at 1.12.2001 by S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

198 Power to apply to court for injunction in respect of certain overseas insurance companies.U.K.

(1)This section applies if the [F40appropriate regulator] has received a request made in respect of an incoming EEA firm in accordance with—

(a)Article 20.5 of the first non-life insurance directive; F41. . .

[F42(b)Article 37.5 of the life assurance consolidation directive][F43; or

(c)Article 42.4 of the reinsurance directive]

(2)The court may, on an application made to it by the [F40appropriate regulator] with respect to the firm, grant an injunction restraining (or in Scotland an interdict prohibiting) the firm disposing of or otherwise dealing with any of its assets.

(3)If the court grants an injunction, it may by subsequent orders make provision for such incidental, consequential and supplementary matters as it considers necessary to enable the [F40appropriate regulator] to perform any of its functions under this Act.

[F44(3A)“The appropriate regulator” means whichever regulator is, at the time when the request is received, the competent authority for the purposes of the provision referred to in subsection (1)(a), (b) or (c).]

(4)The court” means—

(a)the High Court; or

(b)in Scotland, the Court of Session.

Textual Amendments

F40Words in s. 198(1)-(3) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 38(2) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F41Word in s. 198(1)(a) omitted (10.12.2007) by virtue of The Reinsurance Directive Regulations 2007 (S.I. 2007/3253), reg. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 3(a)

F43S. 198(1)(c) and preceding word inserted (10.12.2007) by The Reinsurance Directive Regulations 2007 (S.I. 2007/3253), reg. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 3(b)

F44S. 198(3A) inserted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 38(3) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

199 Additional procedure for EEA firms in certain cases.U.K.

(1)This section applies if it appears to [F45a regulator] that its power of intervention is exercisable in relation to an EEA firm exercising EEA rights in the United Kingdom (“an incoming EEA firm”) in respect of the contravention of a relevant requirement.

(2)A requirement is relevant if—

[F46(a)it is imposed—

(i)by [F47that regulator] under this Act, or

(ii)under any directly applicable Community regulation or decision made under a single market directive; and]

[F48(b)as respects its contravention, the single market directive in question provides that a procedure of the kind set out in the following provisions of this section (so far as they are relevant in the firm's case) is to apply.]

(3)[F49The regulator] must, in writing, require the firm to remedy the situation.

[F50(3A)If the firm falls within paragraph 5(da) [F51or (f)] of Schedule 3, [F49the regulator] must at the same time as it gives notice to the firm under subsection (3) refer its findings to the firm's home state regulator.

F49(3B) Subsections (4) to (8) apply to an incoming EEA firm other than a firm falling within paragraph 5(da) F52... of Schedule 3.]

(4)If the firm fails to comply with the requirement under subsection (3) within a reasonable time, [F49the regulator] must give a notice to that effect to the firm’s home state regulator requesting it—

(a)to take all appropriate measures for the purpose of ensuring that the firm remedies the situation which has given rise to the notice; and

(b)to inform [F49the regulator] of the measures it proposes to take or has taken or the reasons for not taking such measures.

(5)Except as mentioned in subsection (6), [F49the regulator] may not exercise its power of intervention [F53before informing the firm's home state regulator and] unless satisfied—

(a)that the firm’s home state regulator has failed or refused to take measures for the purpose mentioned in subsection (4)(a); or

(b)that the measures taken by the home state regulator have proved inadequate for that purpose.

(6)If [F49the regulator] decides that it should exercise its power of intervention in respect of the incoming EEA firm as a matter of urgency in order to protect the interests of consumers, it may exercise that power—

(a)before complying with subsections (3) and (4); or

(b)where it has complied with those subsections, before it is satisfied as mentioned in subsection (5).

(7)In such a case [F49the regulator] must at the earliest opportunity inform the firm’s home state regulator [F54, ESMA] and the Commission.

(8)If—

(a)[F49the regulator] has (by virtue of subsection (6)) exercised its power of intervention before complying with subsections (3) and (4) or before it is satisfied as mentioned in subsection (5), and

(b)the Commission decides under any of the single market directives [F55(other than the markets in financial instruments directive)] that [F49the regulator] must rescind or vary any requirement imposed in the exercise of its power of intervention,

[F49the regulator] must in accordance with the decision rescind or vary the requirement.

[F56(9)In the case of a firm falling within paragraph 5(da) of Schedule 3, [F49the regulator] may not exercise its power of intervention before informing the firm's home state regulator and unless satisfied—

(a)that the firm's home state regulator has failed or refused to take all appropriate measures for the purpose of ensuring that the firm remedies the situation which gave rise to the notice under subsection (3); or

(b)that the measures taken by the home state regulator have proved inadequate for that purpose.]

[F57(10) If an incoming EEA firm is exercising EEA rights under the UCITS directive, then [F49the regulator] must inform [F58ESMA and] the Commission of any measures it has taken in the exercise of its power of intervention.]

[F59(11) If, in the case of a home state regulator of an incoming EEA firm exercising EEA rights under the UCITS directive, [F49the regulator] is satisfied as mentioned in subsection (5), it may refer the matter to ESMA (and ESMA may act in accordance with the powers conferred on it under Article 19 of Regulation ( EU ) No. 1095/2010 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 24 November 2010 establishing a European Supervisory Authority (European Securities and Markets Authority)).]

[F60(12)Subsection (3) is not to be regarded as requiring the PRA to take action in relation to the contravention of a relevant requirement in a case where it is satisfied that the FCA is required to act, and is acting or has acted, under subsection (3)—

(a)in relation to that requirement, or

(b)where that requirement is imposed by rules made by the PRA, in relation to an identical requirement imposed by rules made by the FCA.]

Textual Amendments

F45Words in s. 199(1) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 39(2) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F46S. 199(2)(a) substituted (1.7.2011) by The Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/1613), reg. 2(9)(a)

F47Words in s. 199(2)(a)(i) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 39(3) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F49Words in s. 199(3)-(11) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 39(4) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F51Words in s. 199(3A) inserted (1.7.2011) by The Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/1613), reg. 2(9)(b)

F55Words in s. 199(2)(b)(8)(b) inserted (1.4.2007 for certain purposes and 1.11.2007 otherwise) by The Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Markets in Financial Instruments) Regulations 2007 (S.I. 2007/126), regs. 1(2), 3(1), Sch. 1 para. 4

F57S. 199(10) inserted (1.7.2011) by The Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/1613), reg. 2(9)(d)

F60S. 199(12) inserted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 39(5) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C12S. 199 extended (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/2636, arts. 1(2)(b), 37, 52(4); S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

S. 199 extended (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3592, arts. 1(2), 22(6) (with art. 23(2))

C13S. 199(7) modified (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3084, arts. 1(1)(b), 2(7); S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

C14S. 199(10) excluded by S.I. 2001/3084, art. 2(8)(b) (as inserted (24.8.2012) by The Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Gibraltar) (Amendment) Order 2012 (S.I. 2012/2017), arts. 1, 2(2)(e))

Commencement Information

I4S. 199 wholly in force at 1.12.2001; s. 199 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 431(2); s. 199 in force for specified purposes at 3.9.2001 by S.I. 2001/2632, art. 2(2), Sch. Pt. 2; s. 199 in force in so far as not already in force at 1.12.2001 by S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

[F61199AManagement companies: loss of authorisationU.K.

(1)This section applies in relation to an EEA firm falling within paragraph 5(f) of Schedule 3 (“a management company”) which is providing services in the United Kingdom in the exercise of an EEA right deriving from the UCITS directive.

(2)If the [F62appropriate regulator] has been informed by the home state regulator of the management company that it is withdrawing the management company's authorisation, the [F62appropriate regulator] must exercise its powers under this Act in such manner as it thinks fit to safeguard the interests of investors in a collective investment scheme managed by the management company in the United Kingdom.

(3)Measures taken under subsection (2) may include decisions preventing the management company from initiating any further transactions in the United Kingdom.

[F63(4)In this section—

  • the appropriate regulator” means whichever of the FCA and the PRA is the competent authority for the purposes of the UCITS directive;

  • collective investment scheme” has the same meaning as in Part 17.]]

Textual Amendments

F61S. 199A inserted (1.7.2011) by The Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/1613), reg. 2(10)

F62Words in s. 199A(2) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 40(2) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F63S. 199A(4) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 40(3) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C15S. 199A(7) modified by S.I. 2001/3084, art. 2(8)(a) (as inserted (24.8.2012) by The Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Gibraltar) (Amendment) Order 2012 (S.I. 2012/2017), arts. 1, 2(2)(e))

SupplementalU.K.

200 Rescission and variation of requirements.U.K.

(1)[F64Either regulator] may rescind or vary a requirement imposed in exercise of its power of intervention on its own initiative or on the application of the person subject to the requirement.

(2)The power of [F65either regulator] on its own initiative to rescind a requirement is exercisable by written notice given by [F66the regulator] to the person concerned, which takes effect on the date specified in the notice.

(3)Section 197 applies to the exercise of the power of the [F67regulator] on its own initiative to vary a requirement as it applies to the imposition of a requirement.

(4)If the [F68regulator] proposes to refuse an application for the variation or rescission of a requirement, it must give the applicant a warning notice.

(5)If [F69either regulator] decides to refuse an application for the variation or rescission of a requirement—

(a)[F70the regulator] must give the applicant a decision notice; and

(b)that person may refer the matter to the Tribunal.

Textual Amendments

F64Words in s. 200(1) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 41(2) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F65Words in s. 200(2) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 41(3)(a) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F66Words in s. 200(2) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 41(3)(b) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F67Word in s. 200(3) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 41(4) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F68Word in s. 200(4) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 41(4) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F69Words in s. 200(5) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 41(5)(a) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

F70Words in s. 200(5)(a) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 41(5)(b) (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C16S. 200 extended (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3592, arts. 1(2), 4(2) (with art. 23(2))

C17S. 200(2)-(5) excluded (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3592, arts. 1(2), 61(4), 110(5), 115(4) (with art. 23(2))

C18S. 200(5)(a) extended (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/3592, arts. 1(2), 7(3)(4) (with art. 23(2))

[F71201Effect of certain requirements on other personsU.K.

If either regulator, in exercising its power of intervention, imposes on an incoming firm a requirement of the kind mentioned in subsection (4) of section 55P, the requirement has the same effect in relation to the firm as it would have in relation to an authorised person if it had been imposed on the authorised person by the regulator acting under section 55L or 55M.]

Textual Amendments

F71S. 201 substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 42 (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

202 Contravention of requirement imposed under this Part.U.K.

(1)Contravention of a requirement imposed by [F72a regulator] under this Part does not—

(a)make a person guilty of an offence;

(b)make any transaction void or unenforceable; or

(c)(subject to subsection (2)) give rise to any right of action for breach of statutory duty.

(2)In prescribed cases the contravention is actionable at the suit of a person who suffers loss as a result of the contravention, subject to the defences and other incidents applying to actions for breach of statutory duty.

Textual Amendments

F72Words in s. 202(1) substituted (27.2.2013 for specified purposes, 1.4.2013 in so far as not already in force) by Financial Services Act 2012 (c. 21), s. 122(3), Sch. 4 para. 43 (with Sch. 20); S.I. 2013/423, arts. 2, 3, Sch.

Commencement Information

I5S. 202 wholly in force at 3.9.2001; s. 202 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 431(2); s. 202(2) in force for certain purposes at 25.2.2001 by S.I. 2001/516, art. 2(b), Sch. Pt. 2; s. 202 in so far as not already in force at 3.9.2001 by S.I. 2001/2632, art. 2(2), Sch. Pt. 2

Powers of [F73Office of Fair Trading] U.K.

Textual Amendments

F73S. 203: words in cross-heading substituted (1.4.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), ss. 278, 279, Sch. 25 para. 40(7)(c); S.I. 2003/766, art. 2, Sch. (with art. 3)

203 Power to prohibit the carrying on of Consumer Credit Act business.U.K.

(1)If it appears to [F74 the Office of Fair Trading (“the OFT”)]) that subsection (4) has been, or is likely to be, contravened as respects a consumer credit EEA firm, [F75it] may by written notice given to the firm impose on the firm a consumer credit prohibition.

(2)If it appears to the [F76OFT] that a restriction imposed under section 204 on an EEA consumer credit firm has not been complied with, [F77it] may by written notice given to the firm impose a consumer credit prohibition.

(3)Consumer credit prohibition” means a prohibition on carrying on, or purporting to carry on, in the United Kingdom any Consumer Credit Act business which consists of or includes carrying on one or more listed activities.

(4)This subsection is contravened as respects a firm if—

(a)the firm or any of its employees, agents or associates (whether past or present), or

(b)if the firm is a body corporate, any controller of the firm or an associate of any such controller,

does any of the things specified in paragraphs [F78(a) to (e) of section 25(2A)] of the M3Consumer Credit Act 1974.

(5)A consumer credit prohibition may be absolute or may be imposed—

(a)for such period,

(b)until the occurrence of such event, or

(c)until such conditions are complied with,

as may be specified in the notice given under subsection (1) or (2).

(6)Any period, event or condition so specified may be varied by the [F79OFT] on the application of the firm concerned.

(7)A consumer credit prohibition may be withdrawn by written notice served by the [F79OFT] on the firm concerned, and any such notice takes effect on such date as is specified in the notice.

(8)Schedule 16 has effect as respects consumer credit prohibitions and restrictions under section 204.

(9)A firm contravening a prohibition under this section is guilty of an offence and liable—

(a)on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum;

(b)on conviction on indictment, to a fine.

(10)In this section and section 204—

  • a consumer credit EEA firm” means an EEA firm falling within any of paragraphs (a) to (c) of paragraph 5 of Schedule 3 whose EEA authorisation covers any Consumer Credit Act business;

  • Consumer Credit Act business” means consumer credit business, consumer hire business or ancillary credit business;

  • consumer credit business”, “consumer hire business” and “ancillary credit business” have the same meaning as in the M4Consumer Credit Act 1974;

  • listed activity” means an activity listed in [F80Annex 1 to the banking consolidation directive] or the Annex to the investment services directive;

  • associate” has the same meaning as in section [F8125(2A)] of the M5Consumer Credit Act 1974;

  • controller” has the meaning given by section 189(1) of that Act.

Textual Amendments

F74Words in s. 203(1) substituted (1.4.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), ss. 278, 279, Sch. 25 para. 40(7)(a); S.I. 2003/766, art. 2, Sch. (with art. 3)

F75Word in s. 203(1) substituted (1.4.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), ss. 278, 279, Sch. 25 para. 40(7)(a); S.I. 2003/766, art. 2, Sch. (with art. 3)

F76Words in s. 203(2) substituted (1.4.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), ss. 278, 279, Sch. 25 para. 40(7)(b); S.I. 2003/766, art. 2, Sch. (with art. 3)

F77Word in s. 203(2) substituted (1.4.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), ss. 278, 279, Sch. 25 para. 40(7)(b); S.I. 2003/766, art. 2, Sch. (with art. 3)

F78Words in s. 203(4) substituted (6.4.2008) by Consumer Credit Act 2006 (c. 14), ss. 33(7), 71(2); S.I. 2007/3300, art. 3(2), Sch. 2

F79Words in s. 203(6)(7) substituted (1.4.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), ss. 278, 279, Sch. 25 para. 40(7)(c); S.I. 2003/766, art. 2, Sch. (with art. 3)

F80S. 203(10): words in definition of "listed activity" substituted (22.11.2000) by S.I. 2000/2952, reg. 8(2)

F81S. 203(10): words in definition of "associate" substituted (6.4.2008) by Consumer Credit Act 2006 (c. 14), ss. 33(8), 71(2); S.I. 2007/3300, art. 3(2), Sch. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C19S. 203 applied (with modifications) (1.5.2009 for certain purposes and 1.11.2009 otherwise) by The Payment Services Regulations 2009 (S.I. 2009/209), regs. 1(2), 26(1) (with reg. 3)

C20S. 203 applied (with modifications) (30.4.2011) by The Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/99), reg. 31(1) (with reg. 3)

C21S. 203(5) modified (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/2636, arts. 1(2)(b), 53(2); S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

Marginal Citations

204 Power to restrict the carrying on of Consumer Credit Act business.U.K.

(1)In this section “restriction” means a direction that a consumer credit EEA firm may not carry on in the United Kingdom, otherwise than in accordance with such condition or conditions as may be specified in the direction, any Consumer Credit Act business which—

(a)consists of or includes carrying on any listed activity; and

(b)is specified in the direction.

(2)If it appears to the [F82OFT] that the situation as respects a consumer credit EEA firm is such that the powers conferred by section 203(1) are exercisable, the [F82OFT] may, instead of imposing a prohibition, impose such restriction as appears to [F83it] desirable.

(3)A restriction—

(a)may be withdrawn, or

(b)may be varied with the agreement of the firm concerned,

by written notice served by the [F82OFT] on the firm, and any such notice takes effect on such date as is specified in the notice.

(4)A firm contravening a restriction is guilty of an offence and liable—

(a)on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum;

(b)on conviction on indictment, to a fine.

Textual Amendments

F82Words in s. 204 substituted (1.4.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), ss. 278, 279, Sch. 25 para. 40(8); S.I. 2003/766, art. 2, Sch. (with art. 3)

F83Word in s. 204 substituted (1.4.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), ss. 278, 279, Sch. 25 para. 40(8); S.I. 2003/766, art. 2, Sch. (with art. 3)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C22S. 204 extended (1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/2636, arts. 1(2)(b), 53(3); S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

C23S. 204 applied (with modifications) (1.5.2009 for certain purposes and 1.11.2009 otherwise) by The Payment Services Regulations 2009 (S.I. 2009/209), regs. 1(2), 26(1) (with reg. 3)

C24S. 204 applied (with modifications) (30.4.2011) by The Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/99), reg. 31(1) (with reg. 3)