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<p>The Government has made no recent assessment in relation to the effect of increasing
the probate limit. In most circumstances the provision of a bank’s services, including
the administration around bereavement, are a commercial decision for the bank. The
Government does not intervene in these decisions.</p><p> </p><p>The treatment of customers
by UK banks and building societies which are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
(FCA) is governed by its Principles of Business. This includes a general requirement
for firms to provide a prompt, efficient and fair service to all their customers,
including those who have recently suffered a bereavement. The FCA does not have specific
rules or guidance regarding probate in its rules. However, all firms regulated by
the FCA are bound by its Principles which apply to the way banks and building societies
conduct themselves. This includes how they handle probate.</p><p> </p><p>The main
current account providers also publish information about the additional services they
offer consumers, including information on the bereavement services they offer. More
information can be found on the FCA website: <a href="https://www.fca.org.uk/data/mandated-voluntary-information-current-account-services/providers-links#voluntary"
target="_blank">https://www.fca.org.uk/data/mandated-voluntary-information-current-account-services/providers-links#voluntary</a></p><p>
</p><p>The Government remains supportive of previous industry efforts to improve handling
of these sensitive cases, including the implementation of the British Bankers’ Association’s
(now known as UK Finance) Bereavement Principles. These Principles include a commitment
from firms to provide support to meet individuals’ needs throughout the bereavement
process and to work to resolve everything as quickly and simply as possible.</p>
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