The band of advisers eventually became Adviser Alliance which fought for client choice on fees or commission, fought for grandfathering for experienced advisers and fought for accountability at the FSA, FOS and FSCS. AIFA chose not to fight. Moreover they actively supported the RDR, as did the ABI and this is one of the prime reasons that the RDR was allowed to shift from theory to substance.

The RDR is now reality and AIFA has moved on. The pro RDR blanket has fallen away and more balanced views have come to the fore. Adviser Alliance, which was formed to blast a number of specific targets, has also run its course. Having deflected previous attempts I feel it is now appropriate for me to apply for one of the AIFA Council positions.

Anybody who knows me will realise that this is not some form of selling out, nor is it an attempt to cosy up to anyone. In truth, my time is precious and I have conflicting pressures that need to be balanced nonetheless the future of the industry is in jeopardy and many regulatory errors need fixing – not the least of which is accountability.