Cryptocurrency Companies in the UK

Treasury – in the House of Commons at 11:36 am on 17 May 2022.

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Photo of Giles Watling Giles Watling Conservative, Clacton 11:36, 17 May 2022

What steps he is taking to encourage cryptocurrency companies to operate in the UK.

Photo of John Glen John Glen Minister of State (Treasury) (City), The Economic Secretary to the Treasury

At Fintech Week on 4 April, I set out our firm ambition to make Britain a global hub for cryptoasset technology, and I announced a number of actions that will support that. That includes committing to consult on a future regulatory regime for cryptoassets later this year; legislating to bring stablecoins into payments regulation; and exploring ways of enhancing the competitiveness of the UK tax system to encourage further development in this sphere.

Photo of Giles Watling Giles Watling Conservative, Clacton

I thank my hon. Friend for his answer. Will he commit to working with the cryptocurrency sector and the UK Cryptoasset Business Council to make sure that the UK’s future regulatory parameter can instil a global advantage, ensuring that our economy remains ahead of the curve?

Photo of John Glen John Glen Minister of State (Treasury) (City), The Economic Secretary to the Treasury

Yes, absolutely, and my officials are meeting the Cryptoasset Business Council later this week. We want to take a dynamic approach to industry engagement. Lots of similar organisations have spawned over the last few months, and I and my officials will work very closely with them as we lead this global leadership aspiration.

Photo of Gregory Campbell Gregory Campbell Shadow DUP Spokesperson (International Development), Shadow DUP Spokesperson (Cabinet Office)

The cryptocurrency market is expanding rapidly, but what are the Government doing to ensure that the wider public are aware of the wild swings that exist in the market? Yes, profits can be made, but so can significant losses, as the past few months have demonstrated.

Photo of John Glen John Glen Minister of State (Treasury) (City), The Economic Secretary to the Treasury

We watch these things very carefully. That is why, in January this year, we announced that certain cryptoassets will be brought within the scope of financial promotions regulation. I am very aware of the Financial Conduct Authority’s advice, which shows that only one in 10 cryptoholders are aware that they can lose all their money. We need to get that number up.