It will instead operate an automated certificate aimed at speeding up the mortgage intermediary application process.

The new confirmation of verification of identity certificate comes in-line with changes to the Joint Money Laundering Steering Group (JMLSG) Guidance Notes 2006, which allows lenders to accept confirmation from FSA regulated intermediaries that they have identified their client to the standards set out by the JMLSG.

The changes come as part of Abbey for Intermediaries ongoing development of service initiatives to make it easier for intermediaries to do business with Abbey. Ricky Okey, managing director of Abbey for Intermediaries said: “As well as being part of a drive to enhance the service we offer intermediaries, the change offers our clients the opportunity to take advantage of being an FSA regulated intermediary. We are one of the few lenders to make this change following the revision of the JMLSG guidelines, and I am sure intermediaries will see the benefit of this”.