5.1 In this chapter, the PRA sets out proposals with regard to the Branch Return to amend the method of submission, make minor formatting corrections to the Branch Return, and to clarify the accompanying reporting guidance.

5.2 These proposals would result in the following changes:

• amendments to the Regulatory Reporting Part of the PRA Rulebook (Appendix 5);

• an update to SS34/15 'Guidelines for completing regulatory reports' (Appendix 11);

• an updated Branch Return template (Appendix 12); and

• updated reporting guidance (Appendix 13).

5.3 This chapter is relevant to PRA-supervised third-country branches.

Proposals

Amendments to the Branch Return

(i) Collection method

5.4 The PRA proposes to change the method of submission of the Branch Return from Excel templates submitted via email, to a submission of XML-format documents via Bank of England Electronic Data Submission (BEEDS).

5.5 The PRA considers that submitting via BEEDS, as opposed to the existing method of email submission, would ensure a secure receipt of data, create a stronger audit trail, and provide a more efficient method of data validation feedback to firms.