Press release

Independent review into LIBOR publishes discussion paper

Martin Wheatley launches discussion paper setting out initial proposals for reforming the current framework for setting and governing LIBOR.

From:
HM Treasury and Mark Hoban
Published
10 August 2012
This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Martin Wheatley, head of an independent review set up by the Government into LIBOR, has today launched a discussion paper setting out initial proposals for reforming the current framework for setting and governing LIBOR.  The paper now seeks feedback from all stakeholders over a four week period and sets out initial analysis on:

  • the role that LIBOR play in financial markets;
  • the flaws in the current structure of setting LIBOR, its governance and oversight; and
  • a range of options for reform, including the issue of transition.

Mr Wheatley said:

It is clear that regardless of the outcome of ongoing international investigations, trust in a vital part of the financial system has been badly damaged and timely action is needed to repair it. Today, we are taking the first step in this process by launching the Wheatley Review discussion paper, which seeks responses from a wide range of market experts and international stakeholders. This review aims to ensure that LIBOR is reformed in whichever way fully restores credibility and trust.

Mark Hoban, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, said: 

This discussion paper demonstrates that we will give regulators the powers they need to prevent the manipulation of key benchmark rates in the future. This review will report by the end of the summer in time for any necessary changes to be taken forward in legislation. The Government is also working with its international partners to inform the international work in this area and work towards a globally consistent solution.

Notes for editors

  1. The discussion paper, open for consultation until 7 September, can be downloaded here: 
    The Wheatley Review into LIBOR: initial discussion paper (PDF 480KB)

  2. The Government set up an independent review on the regulation of LIBOR in July and asked Mr Wheatley (CEO designate of the Financial Conduct Authority) to be chair. It will report to the Cabinet Committee on Banking Reform, chaired by the Chancellor with the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills as Vice-Chair, by the end of the summer.

  3. Any necessary legislative changes will be considered for inclusion in the Financial Services Bill or the Banking Reform Bill. 

  4. Further information about the review, including its terms of reference, can be found in our independent review section, under: The Wheatley Review

Published 10 August 2012