The FSA application process has started and the time has come for brokers to decide if they intend to become authorised. The FSA is accepting requests for application packs, and the application forms will be available in December.
But brokers contemplating becoming appointed representatives were warned not assume that their proposed principals would necessarily become authorised.
The FSA said that brokers should have a contingency plan in case the principal was not compliant.
Networks have also come under the steely gaze of the FSA, which is understood to be "furious" with networks that are said to use scaremongering tactics to recruit members. If they are caught, they may be refused authorisation.
