1992: THE SINGLE EUROPEAN MARKET AND THE BRITISH FINANCIAL SERVICES INDUSTRY

A review of the current situation for the financial services industry throughout the EC but with particular reference to the effect that changes in legislation will have upon British banks, building societies and financial services. In Britain the Financial Services Act and the Building Societies Act have already had the effect of increasing competition and diversifying services. However, the Single Market will present new opportunities requiring strategic planning to meet even more intense competition. In this, the widening of the customer base and of the services provided both in Britain and abroad are important. The moves taken by banks such as Barclays, Midland and NatWest to prepare for 1992 are also discussed.