(1)The regulator may, where it thinks it advances a fundamental objective, give financial assistance to a person in connection with—
(a)undertaking research,
(b)preparing guidance,
(c)developing and publicising best practice, or
(d)facilitating the management of social housing by tenants.
(2)Financial assistance under subsection (1) may be given—
(a)by way of grant,
(b)by way of loan,
(c)by defraying expenditure on behalf of a person, or
(d)in any other way except purchasing loan or share capital of a body corporate or giving a guarantee or indemnity.
(3)The regulator may, where it thinks it advances a fundamental objective, give financial assistance to a registered provider by—
(a)lending money to or in respect of the registered provider, or
(b)giving a guarantee or indemnity in respect of the registered provider.
(4)Financial assistance may be given under subsection (3) only with the consent of the Secretary of State (given with the approval of the Treasury).
(5)Financial assistance under subsection (1) or (3) may be given on conditions (which may include provision for repayment, with or without interest).