1. In the exercise of their duties, the competent authorities shall take into account the convergence in respect of supervisory tools and supervisory practices in the application of the laws, regulations and administrative requirements adopted pursuant to this Directive. For that purpose, Member States shall ensure that:
(a) the competent authorities participate in the activities of EBA;
(b) the competent authorities follow the guidelines and recommendations of EBA and state the reasons if they do not do so;
(c) national mandates conferred on the competent authorities do not inhibit the performance of their duties as members of EBA or under this Directive.
2. [deleted]