Darling may order CC Investigation into SMEs

[MARTIN3030]

Was watching an Interview where he was asked this,and although he did not rule it out-it may well come.

 

The last Competition report into SMEs (Small and medium sized enterprises) was requested in March 2002.

Some detailed studies were initiated between the big 4 banks,and in particular they looked at a 3 year period between 1999 and 2001.

 

Amongst the findings were that in this period the banks were estimated to have made around £725 million from charges to SMEs.

The report found quite overwhelmingly that the banks were charging customers excessive fees for services and fees.

There was also concerns expressed that many customers were unable to understand complex terms and conditions.

The reports findings which came later made a number of suggestions for improvements.

Although there is some evidence to show that some of the improvements did take place,nevertheless the banks charging regimes in the main still remained excessive.

Many banks appeared more concerned with selling associated products such as insurance.

 

In 2006 the OFT announced that they were going to undertake studies into business banking charges,however it looks like this was put on ice following the advent and increased activity with reclaims.

 

The earlier CC report is essentially a very good tool in defence for all those reclaiming historical account charges...and well worth reading.

The conclusion is within a few pages,but there is more detailed information on all the 4 banks which is also worth reading too.

 

Even if Darlng or the FSA did order a new CC investigation now,it could be as long as 2 years before any findings or reports were published.

Although if another investigation WAS ordered now it would highlight that there are still concerns.

 

 

Links for anyone who is interested to read more;

 

http://www.competition-commission.org.uk/rep_pub/reports/2002/462banks.htm

 

 

http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/fin_bank_ccreport.htm

Edited July 29, 2009 by MARTIN3030