Domestic Violence

(asked on )

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, whether all banks and financial service firms are required to have a written policy on domestic abuse.


Answered by
John Glen Portrait
John Glen
Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office
This question was answered on 20th February 2018

The Treasury has not issued guidance. The independent financial services regulator - the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) - requires firms to treat their customers fairly and has broad and robust powers to enforce breaches of its rules.

Confirmed Industry Guidance for the FCA’s Banking Conduct of Business Sourcebook sets out what information firms must provide to customers when they open a joint account, including an explanation of a customer’s rights and duties and the concept of joint and several liability. UK Finance and the Building Societies Association also publish an information leaflet for those considering opening a joint account.

The Government wants to ensure that all victims of domestic abuse are provided with the support they need. The Government will shortly be launching a consultation into tackling domestic abuse, in advance of bringing forward legislation, and I encourage the hon. Member to engage with the consultation when it is published.

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