The European Mortgage Federation (EMF) has today responded to the European Banking Authority’s (EBA) Opinions on Good Practices for Responsible Mortgage Lending and for the treatment of borrowers in mortgage payment difficulties (“arrears handling”). These Opinions are addressed to competent authorities and aim at promoting common practices, with the ultimate goal of enhancing consumer protection and contributing to the stability, integrity and effectiveness of the financial system.

Commenting on the debate on possible responses following the use of chemical weapons near Damascus and the search for possible solutions to the Syria conflict, Green foreign policy co-spokespersons Franziska Brantner and Ulrike Lunacek stated:

“The use of chemical weapons represents a shocking breach of international law that must not go unanswered. While urgent action is now required by the international community, no decision should be made before the findings of the UN expert mission are available.

Leading academics, senior finance professionals from the public and private sectors, and business experts from around the world have agreed to join ACCA’s Global Forums, adding their expertise and knowledge to the 10 Forums which were launched in September 2011.

Neil Stevenson, executive director brand at ACCA commented: “I am delighted to welcome these new Forum members. ACCA Global Forums exist to look at the challenges and opportunities for the accountancy profession generally, while also focusing on specialist areas such as tax, audit and corporate governance.

An effective implementation of energy efficiency measures requires more harmonisation and integration