The firms subject to licensing action have the right to make representations to an adjudicator before a final decision is made.
Today's announcement follows an OFT warning to 129 firms in September 2010, after its review of the debt management sector found widespread problems with compliance.
Since this warning was issued:
• 35 firms have surrendered their licences,
• Eight firms have been informed that the OFT intends to revoke their licences,
• A further seven companies who did not respond are currently being investigated, and,
• 79 firms have submitted evidence, which the OFT will now review.
All firms were asked to provide evidence of compliance measures by 16 December 2010.
The OFT is currently analysing the content of the audit reports received from 79 firms and will contact each business to discuss its findings. Those who fail to meet compliance standards may also find themselves subject to licensing action.
As well as taking enforcement action, the OFT is updating its debt management guidance to take account of new and emerging unfair business practices identified in the course of its review.
Commenting, Ray Watson, director of the OFT’s Consumer Credit Group, said: “We are determined to improve standards in this sector, as the failings identified by our review are unacceptable. Companies providing debt management services should be in no doubt that we will act against bad practice and ensure consumers are protected.”
