SUP 13.2 Introduction

This chapter gives guidance to UK firms. In most cases UK firms will be authorised persons under the Act. However, under the Banking Consolidation Directive, a subsidiary of a firm which is a credit institution which meets the criteria set out in that Directive also has an EEA right. Such an unauthorised subsidiary is known as a financial institution. References in this chapter to a UK firm include a financial institution.

A UK firm should be aware that the guidance is the FSA's interpretation of the Single Market Directives, the Act and the legislation made under the Act. The guidance is not exhaustive and is not a substitute for firms consulting the legislation or taking their own legal advice in the United Kingdom and in the relevant EEA States.

In some circumstances, a UK firm that is carrying on business which is outside the scope of the Single Market Directives has a right under the Treaty to carry on that business. For example, an insurer carrying on both direct insurance and reinsurance businessis not covered by the Insurance Directives in respect of the reinsurance element. Itmay, however, have rights under the Treaty in respect of its reinsurance business. Such UK firms may wish to consult with the FSA on their particular circumstances (see SUP 13.12.2 G).