I made a complaint to the ICAEW about the actions of an ICAEW firm. The ICAEW dismissed the complaint because although they accepted that there had been a wrong they said they would take no action because the professional conduct rules were not mandatory. I am surprised this is the case and wonder what is the point of the ethical rules if they are not mandatory. Is there a higher authority I can complain to about the rules not being mandatory?
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Is there a higher authority I can complain to about the rules not being mandatory?
You could presumably write to the Head Honcho/Big Cheese/CEO - but what would it achieve? It does seem like a bizarre situation, from what you say, but if them's the rules ....
You are welcome to complain to me. I accept any and all formal complaints provided they are accompanied by a cheque to cover my fees and administration costs. I have a scale of charges ranging from an exasperated tut through an annoyed scowl and up to a sweary rant. For an additional fee I will post an outraged comment on various forms of social media with a hashtag of your choice.
I do this with the full backing of my professional body and I have PII in place to cover any accidentally libellous comments.
Surprised they are not mandatory. Demonstrates my naivety.
If ICAEW aren't interested, what else can you do?
Indeed, regulation (by them) is voluntary for most of their members. Many firms operate with no one to complain to other than Trading Stds etc
That response seems so ridiculous that it needs following through - I wonder if you got the advice from the tea boy. I suspect (and hope) if you politely rejected that response and asked them to reconsider you might get a different answer. Alternatively ask them if they minded their advice being sent to the newspapers.
Surprised no-one has called "male cow dung" on this yet.
ICAEW code of ethics is mandatory, albeit some specific rules are only advisory.
Time to retire Selwyn? I see you are 65 now.