Regulation needs 'robust questioning' - Aifa

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Without robust questioning regulation will strangle growth, entrepreneurship and the essential dynamism that benefits consumers, according to Chris Cummings, director general of the Association of Independent Financial Advisers (Aifa) and the Association of Mortgage Intermediaries (Ami).

Speaking at the annual Aifa and Ami London Conference, Cummings warns the intermediary industry faces numerous challenges such as the rising costs of the Compensation Scheme, the review of the Financial Ombudsman Service (Fos), the accountability of the Financial Services Authority (FSA) and European regulation. He adds: “The costs and burden of regulation creep up year upon year. Taken on their own, each may look reasonable, of little concern. That is why we must always question – is this necessary? How much will it cost? What benefit will result?” Walter Merricks, chief ombudsman at...

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