"Thank you for your letter of 3 October 2006, about charges incured on your FlexAccount.
We appreciate the time you've taken to get in touch with us about this issue, and are grateful for the opportunity to explain the rationale behind our charging policy. We are aware there has been a lot of speculation about fees and charges in the media and that the Office of Fair Trading has issued a directive regarding credit cards.
As you know if we allow items to be paid and it means you exceed your agreed overdraft or we have to return an item unpaid on your account then we will make a charge in accordance with the
terms and conditions
. Details of our tariffs are contained within out 'FlexAccount Interest Rates and Charges' leaflet, freely available in branches and provided when opening an account and agreed to by yourself when you sign in acceptance of these terms when signing the application forms.
Nationwide believes it is open and transparent about charges and members are pre-notified prior to charges beging debited via their monthly statements. If, at any time, we make changes to the tariff, account holders are always informed. We hope that you will that you can abide by the
terms and conditions
of the account but if you cannot, then regrettably it may be appropriate for you to consider alternative banking arrangements.
I hope that this has helped clarify our position and you will appreciate why I am unable to refund any charges on your account. If you have any further queries don't hesitate to call me. My contact number is 01793 712507.
I must make you aware The Nationwide Group uses the Financial Services Authority rules when dealing with customers' concerns. I've enclosed a leaflet that explains our Internal Complaints Procedure should you not be happy with my reply.
Yours sincerely,
Sarah Watson
Team Manager
Member Account Servicing