Financial Services and Markets Act 2000

Chapter I U.K. Exemption

General U.K.

285 Exemption for recognised investment exchanges and clearing houses. U.K.

(1) In this Act—

(a) “recognised investment exchange” means an investment exchange in relation to which a recognition order is in force; and

(b) “recognised clearing house” means a clearing house in relation to which a recognition order is in force.

(2) A recognised investment exchange is exempt from the general prohibition as respects any regulated activity—

(a) which is carried on as a part of the exchange’s business as an investment exchange; or

(b) which is carried on for the purposes of, or in connection with, the provision of clearing services by the exchange.

(3) A recognised clearing house is exempt from the general prohibition as respects any regulated activity which is carried on for the purposes of, or in connection with, the provision of clearing services by the clearing house.

286 Qualification for recognition. U.K.

(1) The Treasury may make regulations setting out the requirements—

(a) which must be satisfied by an investment exchange or clearing house if it is to qualify as a body in respect of which the Authority may make a recognition order under this Part; and

(b) which, if a recognition order is made, it must continue to satisfy if it is to remain a recognised body.

(2) But if regulations contain provision as to the default rules of an investment exchange or clearing house, or as to proceedings taken under such rules by such a body, they require the approval of the Secretary of State.

(3) “Default rules” means rules of an investment exchange or clearing house which provide for the taking of action in the event of a person’s appearing to be unable, or likely to become unable, to meet his obligations in respect of one or more market contracts connected with the exchange or clearing house.

(4) “Market contract” means—

(a) a contract to which Part VII of the M1 Companies Act 1989 applies as a result of section 155 of that Act or a contract to which Part V of the M2 Companies (No. 2)(Northern Ireland) Order 1990 applies as a result of Article 80 of that Order; and

(b) such other kind of contract as may be prescribed.

[F1 (4A) If regulations under subsection (1) require an investment exchange to make information available to the public in accordance with—

(a) Article 29.1 of the markets in financial instruments directive and the Commission Regulation, or

(b) Article 44.1 of that directive and that Regulation,

the regulations may authorise the Authority to waive the requirement in the circumstances specified in the relevant provisions.

(4B) The “relevant provisions” for the purposes of subsection (4A) are—

(a) in a case falling within paragraph (a) of that subsection, Article 29.2 of the markets in financial instruments directive and the Commission Regulation, and

(b) in a case falling within paragraph (b) of that subsection, Article 44.2 of that directive and that Regulation.

(4C) If regulations under subsection (1) require an investment exchange to make information available to the public in accordance with—

(a) Article 30.1 of the markets in financial instruments directive and the Commission Regulation, or

(b) Article 45.1 of that directive and that Regulation,

the regulations may authorise the Authority to defer the requirement in the circumstances specified, and subject to the requirements contained, in the relevant provisions.

(4D) The “relevant provisions” for the purposes of subsection (4C) are—

(a) in a case falling within paragraph (a) of that subsection, Article 30.2 of the markets in financial instruments directive and the Commission Regulation, and

(b) in a case falling within paragraph (b) of that subsection, Article 45.2 of that directive and that Regulation.

(4E) ”The Commission Regulation” means Commission Regulation 1287/2006 of 10 August 2006.]

(5) Requirements resulting from this section are referred to in this Part as “recognition requirements”.

[F2 (6) In the case of an investment exchange, requirements resulting from this section are in addition to requirements which must be satisfied by the exchange as a result of section 290(1A) before the Authority may make a recognition order declaring the exchange to be a recognised investment exchange.]

Textual Amendments

F1 S. 286(4A)-(4E) inserted (6.12.2006) by The Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Markets in Financial Instruments) (Modification of Powers) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/2975), reg. 8

F2 S. 286(6) 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(2), Sch. 2 para. 2

Marginal Citations

M1 1989 c. 40.

M2 S.I. 1990/1504 (N.I. 10).

Applications for recognition U.K.

287 Application by an investment exchange. U.K.

(1) Any body corporate or unincorporated association may apply to the Authority for an order declaring it to be a recognised investment exchange for the purposes of this Act.

(2) The application must be made in such manner as the Authority may direct and must be accompanied by—

(a) a copy of the applicant’s rules;

(b) a copy of any guidance issued by the applicant;

(c) the required particulars; and

(d) such other information as the Authority may reasonably require for the purpose of determining the application.

(3) The required particulars are—

(a) particulars of any arrangements which the applicant has made, or proposes to make, for the provision of clearing services in respect of transactions effected on the exchange;

(b) if the applicant proposes to provide clearing services in respect of transactions other than those effected on the exchange, particulars of the criteria which the applicant will apply when determining to whom it will provide those services [F3 ;

(c) a programme of operations which includes the types of business the applicant proposes to undertake and the applicant's proposed organisational structure;

(d) such particulars of the persons who effectively direct the business and operations of the exchange as the Authority may reasonably require;

(e) such particulars of the ownership of the exchange, and in particular of the identity and scale of interests of the persons who are in a position to exercise significant influence over the management of the exchange, whether directly or indirectly, as the Authority may reasonably require.]

[F4 (4) Subsection (3)(c) to (e) does not apply to an application by an overseas applicant.]

Textual Amendments

F3 S. 287(3)(c)-(e) 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(2), Sch. 2 para. 3(a)

F4 S. 287(4) 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(2), Sch. 2 para. 3(b)

Commencement Information

I1 S. 287 wholly in force at 3.9.2001; s. 287 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 431(2); s. 287(2) in force for specified purposes at 18.6.2001 by S.I. 2001/1820, art. 2, Sch.; s. 287 in so far as not already in force at 3.9.2001 by S.I. 2001/2632, art. 2, Sch. Pt. 2

288 Application by a clearing house. U.K.

(1) Any body corporate or unincorporated association may apply to the Authority for an order declaring it to be a recognised clearing house for the purposes of this Act.

(2) The application must be made in such manner as the Authority may direct and must be accompanied by—

(a) a copy of the applicant’s rules;

(b) a copy of any guidance issued by the applicant;

(c) the required particulars; and

(d) such other information as the Authority may reasonably require for the purpose of determining the application.

(3) The required particulars are—

(a) if the applicant makes, or proposes to make, clearing arrangements with a recognised investment exchange, particulars of those arrangements;

(b) if the applicant proposes to provide clearing services for persons other than recognised investment exchanges, particulars of the criteria which it will apply when determining to whom it will provide those services.

Commencement Information

I2 S. 288 wholly in force at 3.9.2001; s. 288 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 431(2); s. 288(2) in force for specified purposes at 18.6.2001 by S.I. 2001/1820, art. 2, Sch.; s. 288 in force in so far as not already in force at 3.9.2001 by S.I. 2001/2632, art. 2 Sch. Pt. 2

289 Applications: supplementary. U.K.

(1) At any time after receiving an application and before determining it, the Authority may require the applicant to provide such further information as it reasonably considers necessary to enable it to determine the application.

(2) Information which the Authority requires in connection with an application must be provided in such form, or verified in such manner, as the Authority may direct.

(3) Different directions may be given, or requirements imposed, by the Authority with respect to different applications.

290 Recognition orders. U.K.

(1) If it appears to the Authority that the applicant satisfies the recognition requirements applicable in its case, the Authority may make a recognition order declaring the applicant to be—

(a) a recognised investment exchange, if the application is made under section 287;

(b) a recognised clearing house, if it is made under section 288.

[F5 (1A) In the case of an application for an order declaring the applicant to be a recognised investment exchange, the reference in subsection (1) to the recognition requirements applicable in its case includes a reference to requirements contained in any directly applicable Community regulation made under the markets in financial instruments directive.

(1B) In the case mentioned in subsection (1A), the application must be determined by the Authority before the end of the period of six months beginning with the date on which it receives the completed application.

(1C) Subsection (1B) does not apply in the case of an application by an overseas applicant.]

(2) The Treasury’s approval of the making of a recognition order is required under section 307.

(3) In considering an application, the Authority may have regard to any information which it considers is relevant to the application.

(4) A recognition order must specify a date on which it is to take effect.

(5) Section 298 has effect in relation to a decision to refuse to make a recognition order—

(a) as it has effect in relation to a decision to revoke such an order; and

(b) as if references to a recognised body were references to the applicant.

(6) Subsection (5) does not apply in a case in which the Treasury have failed to give their approval under section 307.

Textual Amendments

F5 S. 290(1A)-(1C) 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(2), Sch. 2 para. 4

Commencement Information

I3 S. 290 wholly in force at 1.12.2001; s. 290 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 431(2); s. 290 in force for specified purposes at 3.9.2001 by S.I. 2001/2632, art. 2(2), Sch. Pt. 2; s. 290 in force in so far as not already in force at 1.12.2001 by S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

[F6 [F6 290A Refusal of recognition on ground of excessive regulatory provision U.K.

(1) The Authority must not make a recognition order if it appears to the Authority that an existing or proposed regulatory provision of the applicant in connection with—

(a) the applicant's business as an investment exchange, or

(b) the provision by the applicant of clearing services,

imposes or will impose an excessive requirement on the persons affected (directly or indirectly) by it.

(2) The reference in section 290(1) (making of recognition order) to satisfying the applicable recognition requirements shall be read accordingly.

(3) Expressions used in subsection (1) above that are defined for the purposes of section 300A (power of Authority to disallow excessive regulatory provision) have the same meaning as in that section.

(4) The provisions of section 300A(3) and (4) (determination whether regulatory provision excessive) apply for the purposes of this section as for the purposes of section 300A.

(5) Section 298 has effect in relation to a decision under this section to refuse a recognition order—

(a) as it has effect in relation to a decision to revoke such an order, and

(b) as if references to a recognised body were references to the applicant.

(6) This section does not apply to an application for recognition as an overseas investment exchange or overseas clearing house.]]

Textual Amendments

F6 S. 290A inserted (20.12.2006) by Investment Exchanges and Clearing Houses Act 2006 (c. 55), ss. 4, 5(2)

291 Liability in relation to recognised body’s regulatory functions. U.K.

(1) A recognised body and its officers and staff are not to be liable in damages for anything done or omitted in the discharge of the recognised body’s regulatory functions unless it is shown that the act or omission was in bad faith.

(2) But subsection (1) does not prevent an award of damages made in respect of an act or omission on the ground that the act or omission was unlawful as a result of section 6(1) of the M3 Human Rights Act 1998.

(3) “Regulatory functions” means the functions of the recognised body so far as relating to, or to matters arising out of, the obligations to which the body is subject under or by virtue of this Act.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1 S. 291 modified (22.2.2008) by The Northern Rock plc Transfer Order 2008 (S.I. 2008/432), art. 20

C2 S. 291 modified (29.9.2008 at 8.00 a.m.) by The Bradford & Bingley plc Transfer of Securities and Property etc. Order 2008 (S.I. 2008/2546), art. 39

Marginal Citations

M3 1998 c. 42.

292 Overseas investment exchanges and overseas clearing houses. U.K.

(1) An application under section 287 or 288 by an overseas applicant must contain the address of a place in the United Kingdom for the service on the applicant of notices or other documents required or authorised to be served on it under this Act.

(2) If it appears to the Authority that an overseas applicant satisfies the requirements of subsection (3) it may make a recognition order declaring the applicant to be—

(a) a recognised investment exchange;

(b) a recognised clearing house.

(3) The requirements are that—

(a) investors are afforded protection equivalent to that which they would be afforded if the body concerned were required to comply with recognition requirements [F7 , other than any such requirements which are expressed in regulations under section 286 not to apply for the purposes of this paragraph];

(b) there are adequate procedures for dealing with a person who is unable, or likely to become unable, to meet his obligations in respect of one or more market contracts connected with the investment exchange or clearing house;

(c) the applicant is able and willing to co-operate with the Authority by the sharing of information and in other ways;

(d) adequate arrangements exist for co-operation between the Authority and those responsible for the supervision of the applicant in the country or territory in which the applicant’s head office is situated.

(4) In considering whether it is satisfied as to the requirements mentioned in subsection (3)(a) and (b), the Authority is to have regard to—

(a) the relevant law and practice of the country or territory in which the applicant’s head office is situated;

(b) the rules and practices of the applicant.

(5) In relation to an overseas applicant and a body or association declared to be a recognised investment exchange or recognised clearing house by a recognition order made by virtue of subsection (2)—

(a) the reference in section 313(2) to recognition requirements is to be read as a reference to matters corresponding to the matters in respect of which provision is made in the recognition requirements;

(b) sections 296(1) and 297(2) have effect as if the requirements mentioned in section 296(1)(a) and section 297(2)(a) were those of subsection (3)(a), (b), and (c) of this section;

(c) section 297(2) has effect as if the grounds on which a recognition order may be revoked under that provision included the ground that in the opinion of the Authority arrangements of the kind mentioned in subsection (3)(d) no longer exist.

Textual Amendments

F7 Words in s. 292(3)(a) inserted (6.12.2006) by The Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Markets in Financial Instruments) (Modification of Powers) Regulations 2006 (S.I. 2006/2975), reg. 9

Commencement Information

I4 S. 292 wholly in force at 1.12.2001; s. 292 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 431(2); s. 292(1) in force and s. 292(2)-(5) in force specified purposes at 3.9.2001 by S.I. 2001/2632, art. 2(2), Sch. Pt. 2; s. 292 in force in so far as not already in force at 1.12.2001 by S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

[F8 Publication of information by recognised investment exchange U.K.

Textual Amendments

F8 S. 292A and cross-heading 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(2), Sch. 2 para. 5

292A Publication of information by recognised investment exchange U.K.

(1) A recognised investment exchange must as soon as practicable after a recognition order is made in respect of it publish such particulars of the ownership of the exchange as the Authority may reasonably require.

(2) The particulars published under subsection (1) must include particulars of the identity and scale of interests of the persons who are in a position to exercise significant influence over the management of the exchange, whether directly or indirectly.

(3) If an ownership transfer takes place in relation to a recognised investment exchange, the exchange must as soon as practicable after becoming aware of the transfer publish such particulars relating to the transfer as the Authority may reasonably require.

(4) ”Ownership transfer”, in relation to an exchange, means a transfer of ownership which gives rise to a change in the persons who are in a position to exercise significant influence over the management of the exchange, whether directly or indirectly.

(5) A recognised investment exchange must publish such particulars of any decision it makes to suspend or remove a financial instrument from trading on a regulated market operated by it as the Authority may reasonably require.

(6) The Authority may determine the manner of publication under subsections (1), (3) and (5) and the timing of publication under subsection (5).

(7) This section does not apply to an overseas investment exchange.]

Supervision U.K.

293 Notification requirements. U.K.

(1) The Authority may make rules requiring a recognised body to give it—

(a) notice of such events relating to the body as may be specified; and

(b) such information in respect of those events as may be specified.

(2) The rules may also require a recognised body to give the Authority, at such times or in respect of such periods as may be specified, such information relating to the body as may be specified.

(3) An obligation imposed by the rules extends only to a notice or information which the Authority may reasonably require for the exercise of its functions under this Act.

(4) The rules may require information to be given in a specified form and to be verified in a specified manner.

(5) If a recognised body—

(a) alters or revokes any of its rules or guidance, or

(b) makes new rules or issues new guidance,

it must give written notice to the Authority without delay.

(6) If a recognised investment exchange makes a change—

(a) in the arrangements it makes for the provision of clearing services in respect of transactions effected on the exchange, or

(b) in the criteria which it applies when determining to whom it will provide clearing services,

it must give written notice to the Authority without delay.

(7) If a recognised clearing house makes a change—

(a) in the recognised investment exchanges for whom it provides clearing services, or

(b) in the criteria which it applies when determining to whom (other than recognised investment exchanges) it will provide clearing services,

it must give written notice to the Authority without delay.

(8) Subsections (5) to (7) do not apply to an overseas investment exchange or an overseas clearing house.

(9) “Specified” means specified in the Authority’s rules.

Commencement Information

I5 S. 293 wholly in force at 1.12.2001; s. 293 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 431(2); s. 293 in force for specified purposes at 18.6.2001 by S.I. 2001/1820, art. 2, Sch.; s. 293 in force in so far as not already in force at 1.12.2001 by S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

[F9 [F9 293A Information: compliance of recognised investment exchanges with directly applicable Community regulations U.K.

The Authority may require a recognised investment exchange to give the Authority such information as it reasonably requires in order to satisfy itself that the exchange is complying with any directly applicable Community regulation made under the markets in financial instruments directive.]]

Textual Amendments

F9 S. 293A 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(2), Sch. 2 para. 6

294 Modification or waiver of rules. U.K.

(1) The Authority may, on the application or with the consent of a recognised body, direct that rules made under section 293 or 295—

(a) are not to apply to the body; or

(b) are to apply to the body with such modifications as may be specified in the direction.

(2) An application must be made in such manner as the Authority may direct.

(3) Subsections (4) to (6) apply to a direction given under subsection (1).

(4) The Authority may not give a direction unless it is satisfied that—

(a) compliance by the recognised body with the rules, or with the rules as unmodified, would be unduly burdensome or would not achieve the purpose for which the rules were made; and

(b) the direction would not result in undue risk to persons whose interests the rules are intended to protect.

(5) A direction may be given subject to conditions.

(6) The Authority may—

(a) revoke a direction; or

(b) vary it on the application, or with the consent, of the recognised body to which it relates.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C3 S. 294 amended (temp. from 3.9.2001 to 1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/2659, arts. 1(2), 3(10); S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

Commencement Information

I6 S. 294 wholly in force at 3.9.2001; s. 294 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 431(2); s. 294(2) in force for specified purposes at 18.6.2001 by S.I. 2001/1820, art. 2, Sch.; s. 294 in force in so far as not already in force at 3.9.2001 by S.I. 2001/2632, art. 2 Sch. Pt. 2

295 Notification: overseas investment exchanges and overseas clearing houses. U.K.

(1) At least once a year, every overseas investment exchange and overseas clearing house must provide the Authority with a report.

(2) The report must contain a statement as to whether any events have occurred which are likely—

(a) to affect the Authority’s assessment of whether it is satisfied as to the requirements set out in section 292(3); or

(b) to have any effect on competition.

(3) The report must also contain such information as may be specified in rules made by the Authority.

(4) The investment exchange or clearing house must provide the Treasury and the [F10 OFT] with a copy of the report.

Textual Amendments

F10 Words in s. 295 substituted (1.4.2003) by Enterprise Act 2002 (c. 40), ss. 278, 279, Sch. 25 para. 40(9); S.I. 2003/766, art. 2, Sch. (with art. 3)

Commencement Information

I7 S. 295 wholly in force at 1.12.2001; s. 295 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 431(2); s. 295 in force for specified purposes at 18.6.2001 by S.I. 2001/1820, art. 2, Sch.; s. 295 in force in so far as not already in force at 1.12.2001 by S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

296 Authority’s power to give directions. U.K.

(1) This section applies if it appears to the Authority that a recognised body—

(a) has failed, or is likely to fail, to satisfy the recognition requirements; or

(b) has failed to comply with any other obligation imposed on it by or under this Act.

[F11 (1A) This section also applies in the case of a recognised body which is a recognised investment exchange if it appears to the Authority that the body has failed, or is likely to fail, to comply with any obligation imposed on it by any directly applicable Community regulation made under the markets in financial instruments directive.]

(2) The Authority may direct the body to take specified steps for the purpose of securing the body’s compliance with—

(a) the recognition requirements; or

(b) any obligation of the kind in question.

[F12 (2A) In the case of a recognised investment exchange other than an overseas investment exchange, those steps may include—

(a) the granting to the Authority of access to the premises of the exchange for the purpose of inspecting—

(i) those premises; or

(ii) any documents on the premises which appear to the Authority to be relevant for the purpose mentioned in subsection (2);

(b) the suspension of the carrying on of any regulated activity by the exchange for the period specified in the direction.]

(3) A direction under this section is enforceable, on the application of the Authority, by an injunction or, in Scotland, by an order for specific performance under section 45 of the M4 Court of Session Act 1988.

(4) The fact that a rule made by a recognised body has been altered in response to a direction given by the Authority does not prevent it from being subsequently altered or revoked by the recognised body.

Textual Amendments

F11 S. 296(1A) 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(2), Sch. 2 para. 7(a)

F12 S. 296(2A) 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(2), Sch. 2 para. 7(b)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C4 S. 296 amended (temp. from 3.9.2001 to 1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/2659, arts. 1(2), 3(11); S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

Marginal Citations

M4 1988 c. 36.

297 Revoking recognition. U.K.

(1) A recognition order may be revoked by an order made by the Authority at the request, or with the consent, of the recognised body concerned.

(2) If it appears to the Authority that a recognised body—

(a) is failing, or has failed, to satisfy the recognition requirements, or

(b) is failing, or has failed, to comply with any other obligation imposed on it by or under this Act,

it may make an order revoking the recognition order for that body even though the body does not wish the order to be made.

[F13 (2A) If it appears to the Authority that a recognised body which is a recognised investment exchange—

(a) has not carried on the business of an investment exchange during the period of twelve months beginning with the day on which the recognition order took effect in relation to it,

(b) has not carried on the business of an investment exchange at any time during the period of six months ending with the relevant day, or

(c) has failed, or is likely to fail, to comply with any obligation imposed on it by a directly applicable Community regulation made under the markets in financial instruments directive,

it may make an order revoking the recognition order for that body even though the body does not wish the order to be made.

(2B) The “relevant day”, for the purposes of paragraph (b) of subsection (2A), is the day on which the power to make an order under that subsection is exercised.

(2C) Subsection (2A) does not apply to an overseas investment exchange.]

(3) An order under this section (“a revocation order”) must specify the date on which it is to take effect.

(4) In the case of a revocation order made under subsection (2) [F14 or (2A)], the specified date must not be earlier than the end of the period of three months beginning with the day on which the order is made.

(5) A revocation order may contain such transitional provisions as the Authority thinks necessary or expedient.

Textual Amendments

F13 S. 297(2A)-(2C) 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(2), Sch. 2 para. 8(a)

F14 Words in s. 297(4) 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(2), Sch. 2 para. 8(b)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C5 S. 297 amended (temp. from 3.9.2001 to 1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/2659, arts. 1(2), 3(11); S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

298 Directions and revocation: procedure. U.K.

(1) Before giving a direction under section 296, or making a revocation order under section 297(2) [F15 or (2A)], the Authority must—

(a) give written notice of its intention to do so to the recognised body concerned;

(b) take such steps as it considers reasonably practicable to bring the notice to the attention of members (if any) of that body; and

(c) publish the notice in such manner as it thinks appropriate for bringing it to the attention of other persons who are, in its opinion, likely to be affected.

(2) A notice under subsection (1) must—

(a) state why the Authority intends to give the direction or make the order; and

(b) draw attention to the right to make representations conferred by subsection (3).

(3) Before the end of the period for making representations—

(a) the recognised body,

(b) any member of that body, and

(c) any other person who is likely to be affected by the proposed direction or revocation order,

may make representations to the Authority.

(4) The period for making representations is—

(a) two months beginning—

(i) with the date on which the notice is served on the recognised body; or

(ii) if later, with the date on which the notice is published; or

(b) such longer period as the Authority may allow in the particular case.

(5) In deciding whether to—

(a) give a direction, or

(b) make a revocation order,

the Authority must have regard to any representations made in accordance with subsection (3).

(6) When the Authority has decided whether to give a direction under section 296 or to make the proposed revocation order, it must—

(a) give the recognised body written notice of its decision; and

(b) if it has decided to give a direction or make an order, take such steps as it considers reasonably practicable for bringing its decision to the attention of members of the body or of other persons who are, in the Authority’s opinion, likely to be affected.

(7) If the Authority considers it essential to do so, it may give a direction under section 296—

(a) without following the procedure set out in this section; or

(b) if the Authority has begun to follow that procedure, regardless of whether the period for making representations has expired.

(8) If the Authority has, in relation to a particular matter, followed the procedure set out in subsections (1) to (5), it need not follow it again if, in relation to that matter, it decides to take action other than that specified in its notice under subsection (1).

Textual Amendments

F15 Words in s. 298(1) 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(2), Sch. 2 para. 9

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C6 S. 298 amended (temp. from 3.9.2001 to 1.12.2001) by S.I. 2001/2659, arts. 1(2), 3(11); S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

Commencement Information

I8 S. 298 wholly in force at 1.12.2001; s. 298 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 431(2); s. 298 in force for specified purposes at 3.9.2001 by S.I. 2001/2632, art. 2 Sch. Pt. 2; s. 298 in force in so far as not already in force at 1.12.2001 by S.I. 2001/3538, art. 2(1)

299 Complaints about recognised bodies. U.K.

(1) The Authority must make arrangements for the investigation of any relevant complaint about a recognised body.

(2) “Relevant complaint” means a complaint which the Authority considers is relevant to the question of whether the body concerned should remain a recognised body.

300 Extension of functions of Tribunal. U.K.

(1) If the Treasury are satisfied that the condition mentioned in subsection (2) is satisfied, they may by order confer functions on the Tribunal with respect to disciplinary proceedings—

(a) of one or more investment exchanges in relation to which a recognition order under section 290 is in force or of such investment exchanges generally, or

(b) of one or more clearing houses in relation to which a recognition order under that section is in force or of such clearing houses generally.

(2) The condition is that it is desirable to exercise the power conferred under subsection (1) with a view to ensuring that—

(a) decisions taken in disciplinary proceedings with respect to which functions are to be conferred on the Tribunal are consistent with—

(i) decisions of the Tribunal in cases arising under Part VIII; and

(ii) decisions taken in other disciplinary proceedings with respect to which the Tribunal has functions as a result of an order under this section; or

(b) the disciplinary proceedings are in accordance with the Convention rights.

(3) An order under this section may modify or exclude any provision made by or under this Act with respect to proceedings before the Tribunal.

(4) “Disciplinary proceedings” means proceedings under the rules of an investment exchange or clearing house in relation to market abuse by persons subject to the rules.

(5) “The Convention rights” has the meaning given in section 1 of the M5 Human Rights Act 1998.

Marginal Citations

M5 1998 c. 42.

[F16 Power to disallow excessive regulatory provision U.K.

Textual Amendments

F16 S. 300A and cross-heading inserted (20.12.2006) by Investment Exchanges and Clearing Houses Act 2006 (c. 55), ss. 1, 5(2) (with s. 5(3))

300A Power of Authority to disallow excessive regulatory provision U.K.

(1) This section applies where a recognised body proposes to make any regulatory provision in connection with its business as an investment exchange or the provision by it of clearing services.

(2) If it appears to the Authority—

(a) that the proposed provision will impose a requirement on persons affected (directly or indirectly) by it, and

(b) that the requirement is excessive,

the Authority may direct that the proposed provision must not be made.

(3) A requirement is excessive if—

(a) it is not required under Community law or any enactment or rule of law in the United Kingdom, and

(b) either—

(i) it is not justified as pursuing a reasonable regulatory objective, or

(ii) it is disproportionate to the end to be achieved.

(4) In considering whether a requirement is excessive the Authority must have regard to all the relevant circumstances, including—

(a) the effect of existing legal and other requirements,

(b) the global character of financial services and markets and the international mobility of activity,

(c) the desirability of facilitating innovation, and

(d) the impact of the proposed provision on market confidence.

(5) In this section “requirement” includes any obligation or burden.

(6) Any provision made in contravention of a direction under this section is of no effect.

[F17 [F17 300B Duty to notify proposal to make regulatory provision U.K.

(1) A recognised body that proposes to make any regulatory provision must give written notice of the proposal to the Authority without delay.

(2) The Authority may by rules under section 293 (notification requirements)—

(a) specify descriptions of regulatory provision in relation to which, or circumstances in which, the duty in subsection (1) above does not apply, or

(b) provide that the duty applies only to specified descriptions of regulatory provision or in specified circumstances.

(3) The Authority may also by rules under that section—

(a) make provision as to the form and contents of the notice required, and

(b) require the body to provide such information relating to the proposal as may be specified in the rules or as the Authority may reasonably require.]

Textual Amendments

F17 Ss. 300B-300E inserted (20.12.2006) by Investment Exchanges and Clearing Houses Act 2006 (c. 55), ss. 2, 3, 5(2) (with s. 5(3))

300C Restriction on making provision before Authority decides whether to act U.K.

(1) Where notice of a proposal to make regulatory provision is required to be given to the Authority under section 300B, the provision must not be made—

(a) before that notice is given, or

(b) subject to the following provisions of this section, before the end of the initial period.

(2) The initial period is—

(a) the period of 30 days beginning with the day on which the Authority receives notice of the proposal, or

(b) if any consultation period announced by the body in relation to the proposal ends after that 30-day period, the end of the consultation period.

(3) If before the end of the initial period the Authority notifies the body that it is calling in the proposal, the provisions of section 300D (consideration by Authority whether to disallow proposed provision) apply as to when the provision may be made.

(4) If—

(a) before the end of the initial period the Authority notifies the body that it is not calling in the proposal, or

(b) the initial period ends without the Authority having notified the body that it is calling in the proposal,

the body may then make the proposed provision.

(5) Any provision made in contravention of this section is of no effect.

Textual Amendments

F17 Ss. 300B-300E inserted (20.12.2006) by Investment Exchanges and Clearing Houses Act 2006 (c. 55), ss. 2, 3, 5(2) (with s. 5(3))

300D Consideration by Authority whether to disallow proposed provision U.K.

(1) This section applies where the Authority notifies a recognised body that it is calling in a proposal to make regulatory provision.

(2) The Authority must publish a notice—

(a) giving details of the proposed provision,

(b) stating that it has called in the proposal in order to consider whether to disallow it, and

(c) specifying a period during which representations with respect to that question may be made to it.

(3) The Authority may extend the period for making representations.

(4) The Authority must notify the body of its decision whether to disallow the provision not later than 30 days after the end of the period for making representations, and must publish the decision and the reasons for it.

(5) The body must not make the provision unless and until—

(a) the Authority notifies it of its decision not to disallow it, or

(b) the 30-day period specified in subsection (4) ends without the Authority having notified any decision.

(6) If the Authority notifies the body of its decision to disallow the provision and that decision is questioned in legal proceedings—

(a) the body must not make the provision until those proceedings, and any proceedings on appeal, are finally determined,

(b) if the Authority's decision is quashed and the matter is remitted to it for reconsideration, the court may give directions as to the period within which the Authority is to complete its reconsideration, and

(c) the body must not make the provision until—

(i) the Authority notifies it of its decision on reconsideration not to disallow the provision, or

(ii) the period specified by the court ends without the Authority having notified any decision.

(7) Any provision made in contravention of subsection (5) or (6) is of no effect.

Textual Amendments

F17 Ss. 300B-300E inserted (20.12.2006) by Investment Exchanges and Clearing Houses Act 2006 (c. 55), ss. 2, 3, 5(2) (with s. 5(3))

300E Power to disallow excessive regulatory provision: supplementary U.K.

(1) In sections 300A to 300D—

(a) “regulatory provision” means any rule, guidance, arrangements, policy or practice, and

(b) references to making provision shall be read accordingly as including, as the case may require, issuing guidance, entering into arrangements or adopting a policy or practice.

(2) For the purposes of those sections a variation of a proposal is treated as a new proposal.

(3) Those sections do not apply to an overseas investment exchange or overseas clearing house.]]

Textual Amendments

F17 Ss. 300B-300E inserted (20.12.2006) by Investment Exchanges and Clearing Houses Act 2006 (c. 55), ss. 2, 3, 5(2) (with s. 5(3))

Other matters U.K.

301 Supervision of certain contracts. U.K.

(1) The Secretary of State and the Treasury, acting jointly, may by regulations provide for—

(a) Part VII of the M6 Companies Act 1989 (financial markets and insolvency), and

(b) Part V of the M7 Companies (No. 2)(Northern Ireland) Order 1990,

to apply to relevant contracts as it applies to contracts connected with a recognised body.

(2) “Relevant contracts” means contracts of a prescribed description in relation to which settlement arrangements are provided by a person for the time being included in a list (“the list”) maintained by the Authority for the purposes of this section.

(3) Regulations may be made under this section only if the Secretary of State and the Treasury are satisfied, having regard to the extent to which the relevant contracts concerned are contracts of a kind dealt in by persons supervised by the Authority, that it is appropriate for the arrangements mentioned in subsection (2) to be supervised by the Authority.

(4) The approval of the Treasury is required for—

(a) the conditions set by the Authority for admission to the list; and

(b) the arrangements for admission to, and removal from, the list.

(5) If the Treasury withdraw an approval given by them under subsection (4), all regulations made under this section and then in force are to be treated as suspended.

(6) But if—

(a) the Authority changes the conditions or arrangements (or both), and

(b) the Treasury give a fresh approval under subsection (4),

the suspension of the regulations ends on such date as the Treasury may, in giving the fresh approval, specify.

(7) The Authority must—

(a) publish the list as for the time being in force; and

(b) provide a certified copy of it to any person who wishes to refer to it in legal proceedings.

(8) A certified copy of the list is evidence (or in Scotland sufficient evidence) of the contents of the list.

(9) A copy of the list which purports to be certified by or on behalf of the Authority is to be taken to have been duly certified unless the contrary is shown.

(10) Regulations under this section may, in relation to a person included in the list—

(a) apply (with such exceptions, additions and modifications as appear to the Secretary of State and the Treasury to be necessary or expedient) such provisions of, or made under, this Act as they consider appropriate;

(b) provide for the provisions of Part VII of the M8 Companies Act 1989 and Part V of the M9 Companies (No. 2)(Northern Ireland) Order 1990 to apply (with such exceptions, additions or modifications as appear to the Secretary of State and the Treasury to be necessary or expedient).

Marginal Citations

M6 1989 c. 40.

M7 S.I. 1990/1504 (N.I. 10).

M8 1989 c. 40.

M9 S.I. 1990/1504 (N.I. 10).