Appointed representatives

Part

SUP Supervision manual

Chapter

Appointed representatives

Printed on: 06/11/2024

Rulebook at: 01/04/2005

SUP 12

Appointed representatives

SUP 12.1

Application and purpose

01/12/2004

Application

SUP 12.1.1

(1) This chapter applies to a firm which is considering appointing, has decided to appoint or has appointed an appointed representative.

(2) This chapter does not apply to a UCITS qualifier.

30/06/2004

Purpose

SUP 12.1.2

This chapter gives guidance to a firm, which is considering appointing an appointed representative, on how the provisions of section 39 of the Act (Exemption of appointed representatives) work. For example, it gives guidance on the conditions that must be satisfied for a person to be appointed as an appointed representative. It also gives guidance to a firm on the implications, for the firm itself, of appointing an appointed representative.

21/06/2001

SUP 12.1.3

The chapter also sets out the FSA's rules, and guidance on these rules, that apply to a firm before it appoints, when it appoints and when it has appointed an appointed representative. The main purpose of these rules is to place responsibility on a firm for seeking to ensure that:

(1) its appointed representatives are fit and proper to deal with clients in its name; and

(2) clients dealing with its appointed representatives are afforded the same level of protection as if they had dealt with the firm itself.

21/06/2001

SUP 12.1.4

The FSA has produced a leaflet entitled "Becoming an appointed representative" which provides a comprehensive summary of some of the main features of the appointed representative regime. You may download a copy of this leaflet from our website at http://www.fsa.gov.uk/pubs/other/factsheet_appointed.pdf .

21/06/2001

SUP 12.2

Introduction

01/12/2004

What is an appointed representative?

SUP 12.2.1

(1) Under section 19 of the Act (The general prohibition), no person may carry on a regulated activity in the United Kingdom, or purport to do so, unless he is an authorised person, or he is an exempt person in relation to that activity.

(2) A person will be an exempt person if he satisfies the conditions in section 39(1) of the Act, guidance on which is given in SUP 12.2.2 G. A person who is exempt as a result of satisfying these conditions is referred to in the Act as an appointed representative.

21/06/2001

SUP 12.2.2

(1) A personmust satisfy the conditions in section 39(1) of the Act to become an appointed representative. These are that:

(a) the person must not be an authorised person, that is, he must not have permission under the Act to carry on any regulated activity in his own right (section 39(1) of the Act);

(b) the person must have entered into a contract with an authorised person, referred to in the Act as the 'principal', which:

(i) permits or requires him to carry on business of a description prescribed in the Appointed Representatives Regulations (section 39(1)(a)(i) of the Act) (see SUP 12.2.7 G); and

(ii) complies with any requirements that may be prescribed in the Appointed Representatives Regulations (section 39(1)(a)(ii) of the Act) (see SUP 12.5.2 G (1)); and

(c) the principal must have accepted responsibility, in writing, for the authorised activities of the person in carrying on the whole, or part, of the business specified in the contract.

(2) The appointed representative is an exempt person in relation to any regulated activity comprised in the carrying on of the business for which his principal has accepted responsibility.

30/06/2004

Who can be an appointed representative?

SUP 12.2.3

As long as the conditions in section 39 of the Act are satisfied, any person, other than an authorised person, may become an appointed representative, including a body corporate, a partnership or an individual in business on his own account. However, an appointed representative cannot be an authorised person under the Act; that is, it cannot be exempt for some regulated activities and authorised for others.

30/06/2004

Can an appointed representative have more than one principal?

SUP 12.2.4

The Act and the Appointed Representative Regulations do not prevent an appointed representative from acting for more than one principal. However, SUP 12.5.6A R (Prohibition of multiple principals for certain activities) prevents this for particular kinds of business.

30/06/2004

What is a "network"?

SUP 12.2.6

A firm is referred to as a 'network' if it appoints five or more appointed representatives or if it appoints less than five appointed representatives which have, between them, twenty-six or more representatives. However, a network does not include:
(a) a product provider;
(b) a firm which markets the packaged products of a product provider in the same group as the firm and which does so other than by selecting products from the whole market;
(c) an insurer in relation to a non-investment insurance contract; or
(d) a mortgage lender.

30/06/2004

Business for which an appointed representative is exempt

SUP 12.2.7

(1) The Appointed Representatives Regulations are made by the Treasury under section 39(1) of the Act. These regulations describe, among other things, the business for which an appointed representative may be exempt, which is business which comprises any of:

(a) dealing in investments as agent (article 21 of the Regulated Activities Order) where the transaction relates to a pure protection contract (but only where the contract is not a long-term care insurance contract) or general insurance contract;

(b) arranging (bringing about) deals in investments (article 25(1) of the Regulated Activities Order) (that is in summary, deals in a designated investment, funeral plan contract, pure protection contract, general insurance contract or right to or interest in a funeral plan);

(c) making arrangements with a view to transactions in investments (article 25(2) of the Regulated Activities Order) (that is in summary, transactions in a designated investment, funeral plan contract, pure protection contract, general insurance contract or right to or interest in a funeral plan);

(d) regulated mortgage contracts (article 25A(1) of the Regulated Activities Order);

(e) making arrangements with a view to regulated mortgage contracts (article 25A(2) of the Regulated Activities Order);

(f) assisting in the administration and performance of a contract of insurance (article 39A of the Regulated Activities Order);

(g) arranging safeguarding and administration of assets (part of article 40 of the Regulated Activities Order);

(h) advising on investments (article 53 of the Regulated Activities Order) (that is in summary, on any designated investment, funeral plan contract, pure protection contract, general insurance contract or right to or interest in a funeral plan);

(i) advising on regulated mortgage contracts (article 53A of the Regulated Activities Order); and

(j) agreeing to carry on a regulated activity (article 64 of the Regulated Activities Order) where the regulated activity is one of those in (a) to (g).

(2) If the appointed representative is an investment firm (see (3)), the business in (1) does not include the reception and transmission of orders on behalf of investors in relation to instruments covered by the ISD unless that activity is solely on behalf of another investment firm.

(3) In (2), an "investment firm" is a person whose regular occupation or business is the provision of core investment services to third parties on a professional basis, other than a person to whom the ISD does not apply under article 2(2) of the ISD.

14/01/2005

What is an introducer appointed representative?

SUP 12.2.8

(1) An introducer appointed representative is an appointed representative appointed by a firm whose scope of appointment must, under SUP 12.5.7 R, be limited to:

(a) effecting introductions to the firm or other members of the firm's group; and

(b) distributing non-real time financial promotions which relate to products or services available from or through the firm or other members of the firm's group.

(2) The permitted scope of appointment of an introducer appointed representative does not include in particular:

(a) dealing in investments as agent; or

(b) arranging (bringing about) deals in investments or arranging (bringing about) regulated mortgage contracts; or

(d) advising on investments, advising on regulated mortgage contracts or other activity that might reasonably lead a customer to believe that he had received advice on investments or on regulated mortgage contracts or that the introducer appointed representative is permitted to give advice on investments or on regulated mortgage contracts.

(3) An introducer appointed representative may have more than one principal, but will need a contract with each principal.

(4) The approved persons regime does not apply to an introducer appointed representative (see SUP 10.1.16 R ).

14/01/2005

SUP 12.2.9

To become an introducer appointed representative, a person must meet the conditions in the Act to become an appointed representative (see SUP 12.2.2 G).

30/06/2004

SUP 12.2.10

All rules in SUP 12 apply in relation to introducer appointed representatives except for:

(1) SUP 12.4.2 R, SUP 12.4.5B R and SUP 12.4.5C, on the appointment of appointed representatives, which are replaced by SUP 12.4.6 R;

(2) SUP 12.5.6A R on required contract terms, which is replaced by SUP 12.5.7 R; and

(3) SUP 12.9.1 R (4) (Record keeping).

30/06/2004

SUP 12.2.11

If an introducer appointed representative is an individual in business on his own, then he will also be an introducer (see SUP 12.2.13 G). This has certain implications in COB (see COB 5 (Advising and selling)).

21/06/2001

Introducers and representatives: what do these terms mean and what is the relationship with an appointed representative?

SUP 12.2.12

A firm or its appointed representative may appoint or employ individuals to act as introducers or representatives in respect of designated investment business.

01/12/2004

SUP 12.2.13

(1) An introducer is an individual appointed by a firm or by an appointed representative of such a firm to carry out, in the course of designated investment business, either or both of the following activities:

(a) effecting introductions;

(b) distributing non-real time financial promotions.

(2) An introducer is not an exempt person under section 39 of the Act (unless he is also an introducer appointed representative) and hence cannot benefit from the exemption to carry on regulated activities in his own right. As a result, an introducer that is not an introducer appointed representative works in the name of his firm or the firm's appointed representative but he does not fall within the scope of the approved persons regime as he does not, as such, perform a controlled function.

01/12/2004

SUP 12.2.14

(1) A representative is an individual who is appointed by a firm or an appointed representative, to carry on any of the activities in (1)(a) to (c):

(a) advising on investments;

(b) arranging (bringing about) deals in investments;

(2) If a firm appoints an appointed representative who is an individual in (1), that appointed representative will also be a representative. The individual may need to be approved to perform the investment adviser function or the customer trading function or both,and possibly also the sole trader function (see SUP 12.6.8 G and SUP 12.6.9 G). In these circumstances, in addition to complying with the requirements of SUP 12 and other regulatory requirements, the firm should ensure that the rules for representatives in COB 5 (Advising and selling) are complied with.

01/12/2004

SUP 12.3

What responsibility does a firm have for its appointed representatives ?

01/12/2004

SUP 12.3.1

In determining whether a firm has complied with any provision in or under the Act such as any Principle or other rule, anything that an appointed representative has done or omitted to do as respects the business for which the firm has accepted responsibility will be treated as having been done or omitted to be done by the firm (section 39(4) of the Act).

21/06/2001

SUP 12.3.2

The firm is responsible, to the same extent as if it had expressly permitted it, for anything the appointed representative does or omits to do, in carrying on the business for which the firm has accepted responsibility (section 39(3) of the Act).

21/06/2001

SUP 12.3.3

In determining whether the firm has committed any offence, however, the knowledge or intentions of an appointed representative are not attributable to thefirm, unless in all the circumstances it is reasonable for them to be attributed to it (section 39(6) of the Act).

21/06/2001

SUP 12.4

What must a firm do when it appoints an appointed representative or an EEA tied agent?

01/12/2004

The permission that the firm needs

SUP 12.4.1A

The effect of sections 20 (Authorised persons acting without permission) and 39(4) (Exemption of appointed representatives) of the Act is that the regulated activities covered by an appointed representative's appointment need to:

(1) fall within the scope of the principal's permission; or

(2) be excluded from being regulated activities when carried on by the principal, for example because they fall within article 28 of the Regulated Activities Order (Arranging transactions to which the arranger is a party).

30/06/2004

Appointment of an appointed representative (other than an introducer appointed representative)

SUP 12.4.2

Before a firm appoints a person as an appointed representative (other than an introducer appointed representative) and on a continuing basis, it must establish on reasonable grounds that:

(1) the appointment does not prevent the firm from satisfying and continuing to satisfy the threshold conditions;

(2) the person:

(a) is solvent;

(b) is otherwise suitable to act for the firm in that capacity;and

(3) the firm has adequate:

(a) controls over the person's regulated activities for which the firm has responsibility (see SYSC 3.1); and

(b) resources to monitor and enforce compliance by the person with the relevant requirements applying to the regulated activities for which the firm is responsible and with which the person is required to comply under its contract with the firm (see SUP 12.5.3 G (2)); and

(4) the firm is ready and organised to comply with the other applicable requirements contained or referred to in this chapter.

14/01/2005

SUP 12.4.3

In assessing, under SUP 12.4.2 R(2)(a) and (b), whether an appointed representative or prospective appointed representative is solvent and otherwise suitable, a firm should determine, among other matters, whether the person is likely to be adversely influenced by its financial position in the conduct of the business for which the firm is responsible. This might arise, for example, if the person has cashflow problems and is not able to service its debts. Guidance for firms on assessing the financial position of an appointed representative or prospective appointed representative is given in SUP 12 Annex 1.

14/01/2005

SUP 12.4.4

In assessing, under SUP 12.4.2 R (2)(b), whether an appointed representative or prospective appointed representative is otherwise suitable to act for the firm in that capacity, a firm should consider:

(1) whether the person is fit and proper; guidance on the information that firms should take reasonable steps to obtain and verify is given in SUP 12 Annex 2; and

(2) the fitness and propriety (including good character and competence) and financial standing of the controllers, directors, partners, proprietors and managers of the person; firms seeking guidance on the information which they should take reasonable steps to obtain and verify should refer to FIT and the questions in Form A (Application to perform controlled functions under the approved person regime) in SUP 10 Annex 4.

14/01/2005

SUP 12.4.5

In determining, under SUP 12.4.2 R (2)(c), whether an appointed representative or prospective appointed representative has any close links which would be likely to prevent the firm's effective supervision, a firm should consider the guidance to threshold condition 3 (Close links) in COND 2.3.

21/06/2001

Appointment representative who may be appointed by other principals

SUP 12.4.5A

If a firm proposes to appoint an appointed representative, but not to prohibit its appointment by any other principals (see SUP 12.5.2 G (3)), the firm should, in particular:

(1) require, in the contract, that the appointed representative notifies the firm about other principals (see SUP 12.5.5 R (3)) and

(2) unless the appointed representative is an introducer appointed representative:

(a) take reasonable steps to check whether the appointed representative is already appointed by one or more other principals and, if it is, contact those other principals; such steps should include asking the appointed representative and checking the Register ;

(b) if there are any other principals, agree arrangements with the other principals (see SUP 12.4.5B R) ; and

(c) establish effective systems and controls for ensuring that the appointed representative complies with all contractual restrictions imposed, including those relating to multiple principals under the Appointed Representatives Regulations and under SUP 12.5.6A R (see SUP 12.6.11A R).

30/06/2004

Multiple principals

SUP 12.4.5B

(1) A firm must not appoint a person as its appointed representative until it has entered into a written agreement (a "multiple principal agreement") with every other principal the person may have; but this does not apply to the appointment of an introducer appointed representative nor does it require an agreement with another principal which has appointed a person as an introducer appointed representative.

(2) A firm must not unreasonably decline to enter into a multiple principal agreement with any principal of his appointed representative unless the firm is relying on a prohibition on the appointed representative from representing any other firms (or is seeking to impose such a prohibition) as permitted by article 3 of the Appointed Representative Regulations.

(3) A multiple principal agreement must contain all the provisions which are necessary or desirable to:

(a) set out the relationship between the principals of that appointed representative; and

(b) protect the interests of clients;

including the matters set out in SUP 12.4.5C.

30/06/2004

SUP 12.4.5C

Multiple principal agreement

Matter

Explanation

Scope of appointment

The scope of appointment given by each principal to the appointed representative.

Complaints handling

The identity of the principal which will be the point of contact for a complaint from a client (referred to as the "lead-principal" in SUP 12.4.5D G to SUP 12.4.5E G).

An agreement that each principal will co-operate with each other principal in resolving a complaint from a client in relation to the appointed representative's conduct.

The arrangements for complaints handling, including arrangements for resolving disputes between the principals in relation to their liability to a client in respect of a complaint and arrangements for dealing with referrals to the Financial Ombudsman Service.

Financial promotions

The arrangements for approving financial promotion.

Control and monitoring

The arrangements for the control and monitoring of the activities of the appointed representative (see in particular SUP 12.6.6 R (Regulated activities and investment services outside the scope of appointment) and SUP 12.6.7 G (Senior management responsibility for appointed representatives)).

Approved person status

The arrangements for making applications for approved person status (see SUP 10 (Approved persons)).

Training and competence

The arrangements for training and competence (see TC).

Co-operation

The arrangements for co-operation over any other issues which may arise from the multiple appointments, including issues which may damage the interests of clients dealing with the appointed representative and administrative issues.

An agreement by each principal to take reasonable steps to ensure that it does not cause the appointed representative or any of its other principals to be in breach of their obligations to each other or under the regulatory system.

Sharing information

The arrangements for sharing information on matters relevant to the matters covered under the multiple principal agreement and each principal's obligations under SUP 12.6 (Continuing obligations of firms with appointed representatives).

An agreement that each principal will notify each other principal of any information which is materially relevant to the multiple principal agreement.

30/06/2004

SUP 12.4.5D

One effect of the multiple principal agreement is to introduce a 'lead-principal' concept in relation to complaints handling for the benefit of the client. For example, where the client has been given advice by an appointed representative who has two principals, and the advice could have led to a transaction being arranged with either principal, the client will know that he may pursue his complaint with (but not necessarily against) one of the principals. Whether he later decides to refer his complaint to the Financial Ombudsman Service, and if so, against which principal, will depend on the circumstances.

30/06/2004

SUP 12.4.5E

(1) Under the relevant Advising and Selling chapters of COB, ICOB and MCOB, the customer will receive details of how to complain to the appointed representative and, when a product is purchased, details of the complaints procedure for the product provider, insurer or mortgage lender.
(2) Under DISP 1.2.9 R, a firm must among other things, supply a copy of its internal complaint handling procedures to the customer when it receives a complaint. In complying with DISP 1.2.9 R, a firm should ensure that the "lead-principal" is clearly identified in the procedures.
(3) The complaints procedure should also explain that the customer has a choice of whether to contact the appointed representative, the "lead-principal" or the product provider, insurer or mortgage lender and that the "lead-principal" will be the appropriate point of contact where the customer does not wish to complain about a specific product or is unsure who to contact.
(4) In other words, where the customer, has a doubt who to complain to the "lead-principal" is to be the point of contact for all complaints arising out of the activities of the appointed representative.

30/06/2004

SUP 12.4.5F

When considering the provisions for complaints handling (see SUP 12.4.5C(2)) firms should consider the use of a mediation clause. If a complaint is made by a client, principals which are unable to resolve a dispute about liability to the client should consider all quick and effective ways of resolving the dispute, including referring the matter to the Financial Ombudsman Service and mediation.

30/06/2004

SUP 12.4.5G

It is for the principals to consider in each case whether it would be appropriate to show the multiple principal agreement to their appointed representative, or in some circumstances make their appointed representative a party to it.

30/06/2004

Appointment of an introducer appointed representative

SUP 12.4.6

Before a firm appoints a person as an introducer appointed representative, and on a continuing basis, it must take reasonable care to ensure that:

(1) the person is suitable to act for the firm in that capacity (having regard, in particular, to other persons connected with the person who will be, or who are, directly responsible for its activities); and

(2) the firm is ready and organised to comply with the other applicable requirements contained or referred to in this chapter.

30/06/2004

SUP 12.4.7

In assessing, under SUP 12.4.6 R(1), whether an introducer appointed representative or prospective introducer appointed representative is otherwise suitable to act for the firm in that capacity, the firm should determine whether the introducer appointed representative and those persons who will be, or who are, directly responsible for its activities are of sufficiently good reputation and otherwise fit and proper for that appointment. The firm should, as a minimum, verify the identity of a prospective introducer appointed representative and relevant persons but need not carry out the more extensive due diligence required for the appointment of an appointed representative under SUP 12.4.2 R.

14/01/2005

SUP 12.4.8

If a firm has doubts that a prospective introducer appointed representative or other person is of sufficiently good reputation and otherwise fit and proper, the FSA will expect it to resolve those doubts before appointing the prospective introducer appointed representative. For example, if a firm is aware that a person's previous appointment as an introducer appointed representative or representative was terminated, it should take reasonable steps to find out the reasons for the termination and the extent to which those reasons reflect on the person concerned.

21/06/2001

Appointed representative carrying on insurance mediation

SUP 12.4.8A

Before a firm appoints a person as an appointed representative to carry on insurance mediation activity, it must in relation to insurance mediation activity ensure that the person will comply on appointment, and will continue to comply with, the provisions of PRU 9.1.8 R and PRU 9.1.10 R (Knowledge and ability, and good repute) as if the appointed representative were a firm.

14/01/2005

SUP 12.4.8B

In assessing, under SUP 12.4.8A R, whether an appointed representative, or prospective appointed representative, has established the knowledge and ability requirements for persons within its management structure and for those directly involved in its insurance mediation activity, a firm should refer to TC.

14/01/2005

SUP 12.4.9

(1) An appointed representative must not commence an insurance mediation activity until he is included on the Register as carrying on such activities (see SUP 12.5.2 G (3)).

(2) If an appointed representative's scope of appointment is to include an insurance mediation activity, the principal must notify the FSA of the appointment before the appointed representative commences that activity (see SUP 12.7.1 R (1)).

(3) As an exception, pre-notification is not required if the appointed representative is already included on the Register as carrying on insurance mediation activities in another capacity (for example, as the appointed representative of another principal).

14/01/2005

SUP 12.4.10

(1) The FSA has the power to decide not to include on the Register (or to remove from the Register) an appointed representative whose scope of appointment includes an insurance mediation activity, if it appears to the FSA that he is not a fit and proper person to carry on those activities (article 95 of the Regulated Activities Order).

(2) If the FSA proposes to use the power in (1), it must give the appointed representative a warning notice. If the FSA decides to proceed with its proposal, it must give the appointed representative a decision notice. The procedures followed by the FSA in relation to the giving of warning notices and decision notices are set out in DEC 2.

(3) An appointed representative may apply to the FSA for a determination of the kind referred to in (1) to be revoked. If the FSA proposes to refuse the application, it must give the appointed representative a warning notice, and if the FSA decides to proceed with the refusal, it must give the appointed representative a decision notice.

14/01/2005

SUP 12.5

Contracts: required terms

01/12/2004

Required contract terms for all appointed representatives

SUP 12.5.1

The Appointed Representative Regulations include, among other things, the prescribed requirements applying to contracts between firms and appointed representatives for the purposes of section 39(1)(a)(ii) of the Act.

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SUP 12.5.2

(1) Regulations 3(1) to (3B) of the Appointed Representatives Regulations makes it a requirement that the contract between the firm and the appointed representative (unless it prohibits the appointed representative from representing other counterparties) contains a provision enabling the firm to:

(a) impose such a prohibition; or

(b) impose restrictions as to the other counterparties which the appointed representative may represent, or as to the types of investment in relation to which the appointed representative may represent other counterparties.

(2) Under the Appointed Representative Regulations, an appointed representative is treated as representing other counterparties if, broadly, it:

(a) makes arrangements (within article 25 of the Regulated Activities Order) for persons to enter into investment transactions with other counterparties; or

(b) arranges the safeguarding and administration of assets by other counterparties; or

(c) gives advice (within article 53 of the Regulated Activities Order (Advising on investments)) on the merits of entering into investment transactions with other counterparties;

(d) assists in the administration and performance of a contract of insurance (article 39A of the Regulated Activities Order);
where an "investment transaction" means a transaction to buy, sell, subscribe for or underwrite a security or a relevant investment (that is, a designated investment, funeral plan contract, pure protection contract, general insurance contract or right to or interest in a funeral plan; or

(e) arranges:

(i) for persons to enter (or with a view to persons entering) as borrowers into regulated mortgage contracts with other counterparties; or

(ii) for a person to vary a regulated mortgage contract entered into by a person as borroweron or after 31 October 2004 with other counterparties; or

(f) gives advice (within article 53 of the Regulated Activities Order (Advising on investments)) on the merits of:

(i) persons entering as borrowers into regulated mortgage contracts with other counterparties; or

(ii) persons varying regulated mortgage contracts entered into by them as borrower on or after 31 October 2004 with other counterparties.

(3) If the scope of appointment covers, in relation to a contract of insurance, dealing in investments as agent, arranging, assisting in the administration and performance of a contract of insurance or advising on investments, regulation 3(4) of the Appointed Representatives Regulations makes it a requirement that the contract between the firm and the appointed representative contains a provision providing that the appointed representative is not permitted or required to carry on such business unless he is included in the Register as carrying on insurance mediation activities.

14/01/2005

SUP 12.5.3

A firm should satisfy itself that the terms of the contract with its appointed representative (including an introducer appointed representative):

(1) are designed to enable the firm to comply properly with any limitations or requirements on its own permission;

(2) require the appointed representative to cooperate with the FSA as described in SUP 2.3.4 G (Information gathering by the FSA on its own initiative: cooperation by firms) and give access to its premises, as described in SUP 2.3.5 R (2); and

(3) require the appointed representative to give the firm's auditors the same rights as are provided by section 341 of the Act, as described in SUP 3.6.6 G.

21/06/2001

SUP 12.5.4

A firm should have the ability to terminate the contract with its appointed representative in the circumstances in SUP 12.6.1 R (2). However, such a termination provision should not be automatic (see SUP 12.8.3 R (1)).

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SUP 12.5.5

A firm must ensure that its written contract with each of its appointed representatives:

(1) complies with the requirements prescribed in regulation 3 of the Appointed Representatives Regulations (see SUP 12.5.2 G);
(2) requires the appointed representative to comply, and to ensure that any persons who provide services to the appointed representative under a contract of services or a contract for service comply, with the relevant requirements in or under the Act (including the rules) that apply to the activities which it carries on as appointed representative of the firm; and
(3) (unless the written contract prohibits appointments by other principals) requires the appointed representative to notify the firm:

(a) that it is seeking appointment as an appointed representative of another person, who the person is and the business for which the other person will accept responsibility;
(b) (as soon as possible) of any change in the business notified under (a); and
(c) (as soon as possible) of the termination of any such appointment.

30/06/2004

SUP 12.5.6

(1) If the appointed representative is appointed to give advice on investments to private customers concerning packaged products, the firm should also satisfy itself that:

(a) the contract requires compliance with the rules in COB 5.1 (Advising of packaged products); and
(b) if the firm is a provider firm, the contract prevents the appointed representative from giving advice on investments to a private customer concerning the purchase of a packaged product which is not issued by the firm or by another member of its marketing group or is not an adopted packaged product (see COB 5.1.8 R).

(2) The contractual requirements in SUP 12.5.5 R should extend to:

(a) the activities of the appointed representative, if the appointed representative is an individual; and
(b) the activities of the employees of, representatives and introducers appointed by, the appointed representative.

01/12/2004

Prohibition of multiple principals for certain activities

SUP 12.5.6A

(1) A firm must ensure that, if appointing an appointed representative (other than an introducer appointed representative), to carry on any of the following regulated activities, its written contract prohibits the appointed representative from carrying on any of the specified activities as an appointed representative for another firm:

(a) any designated investment business for private customers : the prohibition must cover all designated investment business for private customers ;

(b) any regulated mortgage activities (other than in relation to lifetime mortgages): the prohibition must cover all regulated mortgage activities (other than lifetime mortgages);

(c) any regulated mortgage activities in relation to lifetime mortgages: the prohibition must cover all lifetime mortgages.

(2) As an exception to (1), if the firm is a long-term insurer or an operator of a UCITS scheme, it may permit an appointed representative to carry on designated investment business as the appointed representative of one or more other firms provided that:

(a) each of those other firms is a long-term insurer or an operator of a UCITS scheme;

(b) the first firm and each of those other firms is a member of the same group; "group" means for this purpose a group of bodies corporate all having the same holding company including the holding company; and

30/06/2004

SUP 12.5.6B

(1) The effect of SUP 12.5.6A R (1)(a) is that, in relation to designated investment business with private customers , appointed representatives are restricted to one principal.

(2) The effect of SUP 12.5.6A R (1)(b) and SUP 12.5.6A R (1)(c) is that, in relation to regulated mortgage activities with customer, appointed representatives are restricted to having two principals: one for regulated mortgage contractsand one for lifetime mortgages

14/01/2005

SUP 12.5.6C

As SUP 12.5.6A R does not apply to non-investment insurance contracts, there are no restrictions on the number of principals an appointed representative may have in relation to those contracts.

14/01/2005

Required contract terms for an introducer appointed representative

SUP 12.5.7

A firm must ensure that its written contract with each of its introducer appointed representatives limits the scope of the appointment to:

(1) effecting introductions to the firm or other members of the firm's group; and

(2) distributing non-real time financial promotions which relate to products or services available from or through the firm or other members of the firm's group.

30/06/2004

SUP 12.6

Continuing obligations of firms with appointed representatives

01/12/2004

Suitability etc. of appointed representatives

SUP 12.6.1

If at any time a firm has reasonable grounds to believe that the conditions in SUP 12.4.2 R, SUP 12.4.6 R or SUP 12.4.8A R (as applicable) are not satisfied, or are likely not to be satisfied, in relation to any of its appointed representatives, the firm must:

(1) take immediate steps to rectify the matter; or

(2) terminate its contract with the appointed representative.

14/01/2005

SUP 12.6.2

The FSA would normally expect a firm to carry out a check on its appointed representative's financial position every year (more often, if necessary) and to review critically the information obtained. An appropriately experienced person (for example, a financial accountant) should carry out these checks.

21/06/2001

SUP 12.6.3

Consideration should be given, among other things, to the impact on the appointed representative's financial position of any debts owed to, or by, the appointed representative. Indicators that an appointed representative is experiencing financial problems may include failure to adhere to repayment schedules for any debts, failure to meet any other financial commitments or requests for advances of commission.

21/06/2001

SUP 12.6.4

A firm should look into any concerns that may arise at any time about an appointed representative's financial standing and take the necessary action. The necessary action may include, for example, increased monitoring or, if appropriate, suspension or termination of the appointment.

21/06/2001

Appointed representatives not to hold client money

SUP 12.6.5

(1) A firm must not permit an appointed representative to hold client money unless the firm is an insurance intermediary acting in accordance with CASS 5.5.18 R to CASS 5.5.23 R (which include provision for periodic segregation and reconciliation).

(2) The firm must take reasonable steps to ensure that if client money is received by the appointed representative, it is paid into a client bank account of the firm, or forwarded to the firm, in accordance with :

(a) CASS 4.3.15 R to CASS 4.3.17 R; or

(b) CASS 5.5.18 R to CASS 5.5.21 R unless acting in accordance with CASS 5.5.23 R (Periodic segregation and reconciliation).

14/01/2005

Regulated activities and investment services outside the scope of appointment

SUP 12.6.6

A firm must take reasonable steps to ensure that each of its appointed representatives:

(1) does not carry on regulated activities in breach of the general prohibition in section 19 of the Act; and

(2) carries on the regulated activities for which the firm has accepted responsibility in a way which is, and is held out as being, clearly distinct from any of the appointed representative's other business:

(a) which is performed as an appointed representative of another firm; or

(b) which:

(i) is, or is held out as being, primarily for the purposes of investment or obtaining credit, or obtaining insurance cover; and

(ii) is not a regulated activity.

14/01/2005

Senior management responsibility for appointed representatives

SUP 12.6.7

The senior management of a firm should be aware that the activities of appointed representatives are an integral part of the business that they manage. The responsibility for the control and monitoring of the activities of appointed representatives rests with the senior management of the firm. Guidance is set out in SYSC 3 on delegation (for example, SYSC 3.2.3 G and SYSC 3.2.4 G) and in the Statements of Principle and Code of Practice for Approved Persons in APER (for example, APER 4.5 and APER 4.6).

21/06/2001

Obligations of firms under the approved persons regime

SUP 12.6.8

(1) Some of the controlled functions, as set out in SUP 10.4.1 R, apply to an appointed representative of a firm, other than an introducer appointed representative, just as they apply to a firm (see SUP 10.1.16 R ). These are the governing functions and the customer functions (other than the investment management function) such as, for example, CF 21, the investment adviser function. As explained in SUP 10.1.16A R , SUP 10.1.17G (3) and SUP 10.3.2 G respectively:

(a) the effect of SUP 10.1.16 R is that the directors (or their equivalent) and senior managers (or their equivalent) of an appointed representative, other than an introducer appointed representative, must also be approved under section 59 of the Act for the performance of certain controlled functions;
(b) although the customer functions (other than the investment manager function) apply to an appointed representative, the descriptions of the functions themselves do not extend to mortgage mediation activity or insurance mediation activity; and
(c) sections 59(1) and 59(2) of the Act (Approval for particular arrangements) provide that approval is necessary in respect of a controlled function which is performed under an arrangement entered into by a firm, or its contractors (typically an appointed representative), in relation to a regulated activity.

(2) The approved persons regime applies differently to an appointed representative whose scope of appointment includes insurance mediation activity in relation to non-investment insurance contractsbut no other regulated activity and whose principal purpose is to carry on activities other than regulated activities. These appointed representatives need only one person performing one of the governing functions. This means that only one director (or equivalent) of these appointed representatives must be approved under section 59 of the Act for the performance of the director function, the chief executive function, the partner function or the director of unincorporated association function, whichever is the most appropriate (see SUP 10.1.16A R and SUP 10.1.17G (3)).

14/01/2005

SUP 12.6.9

Firms should be aware that, under the approved persons regime, the firm is responsible for submitting applications to the FSA for the approval as an approved person of:

(1) any individual who performs a controlled function and who is an appointed representative; and

(2) any person who performs a controlled function under an arrangement entered into by any of the firm's appointed representatives.

Applications for approval should be submitted as early as possible since a person may not perform a controlled function if he has not been approved by the FSA (see SUP 10.12 ).

21/06/2001

Obligations of firms under the training and competence rules

SUP 12.6.10

The rules and guidance in TCextend to any employee of the firm in respect of whom the relevant rules apply. For these purposes, an employee of a firm includes:

(1) an individual who is an appointed representative of a firm; and

(2) an individual who is employed or appointed by an appointed representative of a firm (whether under a contract of service or for services) in connection with the business of the appointed representative for which the firm has accepted responsibility.

21/06/2001

SUP 12.6.11

A firm should take reasonable care to ensure that:

(1) it has satisfied TC 2 in respect of the relevant staff of the appointed representative; and

(2) its appointed representative has adequate arrangements in respect of training and competence, which meet the requirements in TC.

30/06/2004

Compliance by an appointed representative with the contract

SUP 12.6.11A

A firm must take reasonable steps to establish and maintain effective systems and controls for ensuring that each of its appointed representatives complies with those terms of its contract which are imposed under the requirements contained or referred to in SUP 12.5 (Contracts: required times).

30/06/2004

SUP 12.6.12

[Deleted]

30/06/2004

SUP 12.7

Notification requirements

01/12/2004

Notification of appointment of an appointed representative

SUP 12.7.1

(1) A firm which appoints an appointed representative must complete and submit to the FSA the form in SUP 12 Annex 3 (Appointed representative appointment form) in accordance with the instructions on the form and not more than ten business days after the date the appointment takes effect.

(a) if the appointment covers insurance mediation activities and the appointed representative is not included on the Register as carrying on such activities in another capacity before (see SUP 12.4.9 G); or

(b) (otherwise) not more than ten business days after;

the appointed representative begins to carry on regulated activities under the contract.

(2) [deleted]

14/01/2005

SUP 12.7.2

A firm's notice under SUP 12.7.1 R should give details of the appointed representative and the regulated activities which the firm is, or intends to, carry on through the appointed representative, including:

(1) the name of the firm's new appointed representative (if the appointed representative is a body corporate, this is its registered name);

(2) any trading name under which the firm's new appointed representative carries on a regulated activity in that capacity;

(3) a description of the regulated activities which the appointed representative is permitted or required to carry on and for which the firm has accepted responsibility;

(4) any restrictions imposed on the regulated activities for which the firm has accepted responsibility; and

(5) where the appointed representative is not an individual, the name of the individuals who are responsible for the management of the business carried on by the appointed representative so far as it relates to insurance mediation activity.

14/01/2005

SUP 12.7.3

A firm need not notify the FSA of any restrictions imposed on the regulated activities for which the firm has accepted responsibility (under SUP 12.7.2 G (4)) if the firm accepts responsibility for the unrestricted scope of the regulated activities.

21/06/2001

SUP 12.7.3A

Where a notification is linked to an application for approval under section 59 of the Act (Approval for particular arrangements), see SUP 10.12.4A G .

01/12/2002

SUP 12.7.4

(1) [deleted]

(2) [deleted]

21/06/2001

SUP 12.7.5

To contact the Authorisation and Approvals Department (Authorisation teams):

(1) telephone on 020 7066 1000; fax on 020 7066 1099; or

(2) write to: Authorisation and Approvals Department (Authorisation teams), The Financial Services Authority, 25 The North Colonnade, Canary Wharf, London E14 5HS; or

(3) email appreps@ fsa.gov.uk.

21/06/2001

SUP 12.7.6

When the FSA receives the notification under SUP 12.7.1 R, it will update the firm's entry in the FSA Register to include public information about the firm's appointed representative.

21/06/2001

Notification of changes in information given to the FSA

SUP 12.7.7

(1) If:

(a)

(i) the scope of appointment of an appointed representative is extended to cover insurance mediation activities for the first time; and

(ii) the appointed representative is not included on the Register as carrying on insurance mediation activities in another capacity; or

(b) the scope of appointment of an appointed representative ceases to include insurance mediation activity;

the appointed representative's principal must give written notice to the FSA of that change before the appointed representative begins to carry on insurance mediation activities under the contract (see SUP 12.4) or as soon as the scope of appointment of the appointed representative ceases to include insurance mediation activity.

(2) Where there is a change in any of the information provided to the FSA under SUP 12.7.1 R, a firm must complete and submit to the FSA the form in SUP 12 Annex 4 (Appointed representative notification form) in accordance with the instructions on the form and within ten business days of that change being made or, if later, as soon as the firm becomes aware of the change. The Appointed representative notification form must state that the information has changed.

(3) A firm's notification under (1) and (2) must be given to a member of or addressed for the attention of the Monitoring and Notifications Department at the address given in SUP 12.5.7 R.

14/01/2005

Notification of changes in conditions of appointment

SUP 12.7.8

(1) As soon as a firm has reasonable grounds to believe that any of the conditions in SUP 12.4.2 R, SUP 12.4.6 R or SUP 12.4.8A R (as applicable) are not satisfied, or are likely not to be satisfied, in relation to any of its appointed representatives, it must complete and submit to the FSA the form in SUP 12 Annex 4 (Appointed representative notification form), in accordance with the instructions on the form.

(2) In its notification under SUP 12.7.8 R (1), the firm must state either:

(a) the steps it proposes to take to rectify the matter; or

(b) the date of termination of its contract with the appointed representative (see SUP 12.8).

(3) [deleted]

14/01/2005

SUP 12.8

Termination of a relationship with an appointed representative

01/12/2004

Notification of termination or prohibited amendment of the contract

SUP 12.8.1

If either the firm or the appointed representative notifies the other that it proposes to terminate the contract of appointment or to amend it so that it no longer meets the requirements contained or referred to in SUP 12.5 (Contracts: required terms), the firm must:

(1) complete and submit to the FSA the form in SUP 12 Annex 5 (Appointed representative termination form) in accordance with the instructions on the form and no more than ten business days after the date of the decision to terminate or so amend the contract or, if later, as soon as it becomes aware that the contract is to be or has been terminated or amended.

(2) [deleted]

(3) [deleted]

(4) [deleted]

01/11/2004

SUP 12.8.2

In assessing whether to terminate a relationship with an appointed representative, a firm should be aware that the notification rules in SUP 15 require notification to be made immediately to the FSA if certain events occur. Examples include a matter having a serious regulatory impact or involving an offence or a breach of any requirement imposed by the Act or by regulations or orders made under the Act by the Treasury.

21/06/2001

Steps to be taken on termination or prohibited amendment of the contract

SUP 12.8.3

If a contract with an appointed representative is terminated, or if it is amended in a way which gives rise to a requirement to notify under SUP 12.8.1 R, a firm must take all reasonable steps to ensure that:

(1) if the termination is by the firm, the appointed representative is notified in writing before, or if not possible, immediately on, the termination of the contract and informed that it will no longer be an exempt person for the purpose of the Act because of the contract with the firm;

(2) outstanding regulated activities and obligations to customers are properly completed and fulfilled either by itself or another of its appointed representatives;

(3) where appropriate, clients are informed of any relevant changes; and

(4) all the other principals of the appointed representative of which the firm is aware are notified.

30/06/2004

Notification of approved persons on termination

SUP 12.8.4

The firm is responsible for notifying the FSA of any approved person who no longer performs a controlled function under an arrangement entered into by a firm or its appointed representative (see SUP 10.3).

21/06/2001

Removal of an appointed representative from the Register

SUP 12.8.5

The FSA has the power to remove from the Register an appointed representative, whose scope of appointment covers insurance mediation activities (see SUP 12.4.9 G and SUP 12.4.10 G).

14/01/2005

SUP 12.9

Record keeping

01/12/2004

SUP 12.9.1

A firm must make the following records on each of its appointed representatives:

(1) the appointed representative's name;
(2) a copy of the original contract with the appointed representative and any subsequent amendments to it (including details of any restrictions placed on the activities which the appointed representative may carry on);
(3) the date and reason for terminating or amending its contract with the appointed representative, whenever such termination or amendment gives rise to a requirement to notify under SUP 12.8.1 R; and
(4) any arrangements agreed with other principals under SUP 12.4.5B R (Multiple principals).

30/06/2004

SUP 12.9.2

A firm must retain these records for at least three years from the date of termination or the amendment of the contract with the appointed representative.

21/06/2001

SUP 12.9.3

The firm should also satisfy itself that:

(1) the appointed representative is making and retaining records in accordance with the relevant record keeping rules in the Handbook, if these records are not maintained by the firm;
(2) the appointed representative (other than an introducer appointed representative) is making and retaining records sufficient to disclose with reasonable accuracy the financial position of the business it carries on in its capacity as the firm's appointed representative; and
(3) the firm has full access to the appointed representative's records under (1) and (2) and any other records relevant to the regulated activities that the appointed representative carries on in that capacity.

21/06/2001

SUP 12.9.4

Firms are reminded that they should make and retain records in relation to any person who falls within the scope of the rules in TC or who performs a controlled function under an arrangement entered into by a firm or by an appointed representative. See SUP 10 and TC for the applicable record keeping rules.

21/06/2001

SUP 12 Annex 1

Guidance on steps a firm should take in assessing the financial position of an appointed representative (other than an introducer appointed representative). See SUP 12.4.3 G

01/12/2004

The guidance in this annex applies to a firm which intends to appoint, or has appointed, an appointed representative (other than an introducer appointed representative).

All of the items in this annex should be applied, as appropriate, to an individual who is in business on his own.

Partners in partnerships (other than limited partners in limited liability partnerships) have joint and several unlimited liability. It follows that any assessment of the financial position of an appointed representative which is a partnership should take into account the final position of the individual partners as well as the partnership itself.

Accounts

1. Consider whether the type of accounts obtained is appropriate to the type of appointed representative (for example, companies should supply audited accounts prepared in accordance with Companies Act provisions while individuals in business on their own may only prepare unaudited accounts, for example, for submission to the Inland Revenue or their bankers).
2. Consider whether the accounts have been prepared on a timely basis. Consider the content of the audit report, including all detail and explanations given, and any qualifications which it may contain. Investigate any concerns.
3. If relevant, obtain the most recent management accounts to assess whether the appointed representative's financial position has changed materially since the most recent audited accounts.
4. If audited accounts are not available, be more circumspect about the accounts as they have not been independently audited. If necessary, consider obtaining third party verification of material balances.

Unusual items/recoverability of debts/goodwill

1. Investigate fully any unusual items - in particular any amounts outstanding with directors, partners, connected persons or associates and any guarantees.
2. Consider whether any amounts due to the appointed representative would be recoverable; and whether the appointed representative would be in a position to pay any debts if it were required to do so at short notice.
3. Any balance for goodwill should be ignored since this will normally represent a stream of potential future income which may not be forthcoming if the equity interest in the appointed representative were sold.

Financial stability/cashflows

1. Critically review the accounts to ensure that the appointed representative is financially stable. The review should take into account the overall position of the appointed representative and its cashflow.
2. The review should also consider the nature of the appointed representative's assets and whether or not they are liquid and readily available to the appointed representative, if required. Investments in (for example) unquoted companies or property may be difficult to realise if there were a sudden need for cash.

Income / financial pressures

1. Assess the overall financial pressures on the appointed representative and connected persons. Account should be taken of the full range of the appointed representative's activities (and not merely those activities in which the appointed representative will be acting for the firm). Careful consideration should be given to any debts arising out of previous activities within the financial services industry.
2. If relevant, review the accounts of any associates where there is a possibility that their performance - or any commitments entered into in respect of them - may affect the financial position of the appointed representative.
3. Establish whether the appointed representative's income is sufficient both to service any debts and to provide an acceptable level of income to the proprietors.

Credit checks /dealings government bodies

1. Undertake a credit reference check on the appointed representative itself (in the case of a company); on the partners (in the case of a partnership); or on the individual (in the case of a sole trader).
2. Ask the appointed representative whether it is up to date in its dealings with the Inland Revenue, HM Customs and Excise (etc).

Forecasts

1. If relevant, obtain a forecast of the next year's figures and review it to ensure that the appointed representative is likely to remain in a satisfactory financial position. This is particularly important where a material change is expected in the appointed representative's operations; or where the appointed representative has only recently been established so that accounts are not available for the previous three complete financial years.
2. If the firm decides to appoint the appointed representative, the firm should keep the appointed representative's actual performance under close review so as to assess whether the forecasts were realistic and to enable any problems to be addressed.

21/06/2001

SUP 12 Annex 2

Guidance on information firms should take reasonable steps to obtain to verify and to assess the fitness and propriety of an appointed representative (other than an introducer appointed representative). See SUP 12.4.4 G (1).

01/12/2004

1. The guidance in this annex applies to a firm which intends to appoint or has appointed an appointed representative (except an introducer appointed representative).

2. Items 1(c) and 1(d) in the following table will not be relevant in the case of an individual who is himself an appointed representative, unless, in the case of 1(d), the individual is in business on his own.

3. If the appointed representative is a partnership, the information a firm should obtain, having regard to SUP 12.4.4 G (1), is that contained in this annex on the basis that the information sought applies to each partner. When considering the fitness and propriety of each partner, having regard to SUP 12.4.4 G (1), information a firm should obtain will also include information in this annex. Therefore, a firm may wish to assess the fitness and propriety of partners as suggested in SUP 12.4.4 G (2) and then consider if any additional information is recommended under this annex.

(1)

Information about the appointed representative

(a)

Name

(b)

Address, and, where applicable and different, address of the registered office and the principal place of business

(c)

full name of every director, senior manager and controller

(d)

accounts (see SUP 12 Annex 1) for the last three complete financial years

The appointed representative's professional reputation

(a)

Disciplinary proceedings

(i)

whether the appointed representative has ever been publicly censored, disciplined, suspended or expelled by the FSA, another regulator, a clearing house, an exchange, a professional body, or a government body or agency;

(ii)

whether the appointed representative is currently the subject of any disciplinary proceedings by a body referred to in (i) above or is aware that such proceedings are pending;

(iii)

whether the appointed representative has ever been the subject of a formal investigation under the powers in the Companies Act 1985; and

(iv)

whether the appointed representative has had anything equivalent to (i) to (iii) above occur under relevant overseas provisions.

The appointed representative's professional reputation - continued

(b)

Criminal or civil proceedingsWhether the appointed representative is a defendant in any current civil proceedings connected with professional activities in which an allegation of fraud or dishonesty is being made, the subject of any current criminal proceedings, or has been convicted of any criminal offence, either in the United Kingdom or overseas.

(c)

Insolvency, bankruptcy and winding upWhether the appointed representative has:

(i)

been wound up or had a petition presented, or had a meeting called to consider a resolution, for winding it up; or

(ii)

in the case of a company, been the subject of an application to dissolve it or to strike it off the Register of Companies; or

(iii)

made, or proposed to make, a composition or voluntary arrangement with any one of more of its creditors; or

(iv)

had an administrator or trustee in bankruptcy appointed to it or had an application made for such an appointment; or

(v)

had a receiver appointed to it (whether an administrative receiver or a receiver appointed over particular property); or

(vi)

had an application for an interim order made against it under section 252 of the Insolvency Act 1986 (or, in Northern Ireland, section 227 of the Insolvency (Northern Ireland) Order 1989); or

(vii)

if it is a sole trader, been the subject of an application for a sequestration order or a petition for bankruptcy; or

(viii)

ceased trading in circumstances in which any of its creditors did not receive full payment; or.

(ix)

had anything equivalent to (i) to (viii) above occur under relevant overseas law.

21/06/2001

SUP 12 Annex 3

Appointed representative appointment form

01/12/2004

This annex consists only of one or more forms. Forms are to be found through the following address:

Appointed representative appointment form - SUP 12 Annex 3

21/06/2001

SUP 12 Annex 4

Appointed representative notification form

01/12/2004

This annex consists only of one or more forms. Forms are to be found through the following address:

Appointed representative notification form - SUP 12 Annex 4

01/11/2004

SUP 12 Annex 5

Appointed representative termination form

01/12/2004

This annex consists only of one or more forms. Forms are to be found through the following address:

Appointed representative termination form - SUP 12 Annex 5

01/11/2004