This isn't directly linked to their bank charges but I've been well and truly turned over by NatWest. They contacted me about increasing my overdraft, which after some discussion I agreed to. The agreement was the increased limt would reduce by a fixed amount each month until it was at the original limit. 8 days later they terminated the agreement and reduced my overdraft to its original limit without any warning. When I queried this I was told it was my fault because I had exceeded the increased limit contrary to the T&Cs. OK hands up I had due to bad timing - a cheque going out the day before I got paid and their excessive charge for this. Now this isn't in the T&Cs and wasn't explained in the phone call I received. In fact the T&Cs provide for the increased limit to be exceeded at their discretion and subject to the usual unarranged borrowing charges. They didn't appreciate my questions and threatened to close my account if I insisted on speaking with a manager. Turns out an overdraft is "repayable on demand" which in their view means they can call it in immediately when they want and don't have to give me any notice or time to make alternative arrangements. They even say they don't have to explain this - in their opinion it's "obvious" and "common sense". So much for treating customers fairly, The Banking Code and providing clear T&Cs in plain language. I've written to complain but I'm not holding my breath that they are remotely interested. Another example of a large financial institution having no care or concern for Joe Public and the effect their actions have on his sorry little existence.

Hi, these links provide more info about the impact of the OFT test case. http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/reclaim/oft-bank-charges http://www.oft.gov.uk/advice_and_resources/resource_base/market-studies/personal2 It is is important that you continue with your court proceedings. There is no blanket stay on court hearings. But you should be aware the solicitors for Natwest (Cobbets) will write to the court asking for a stay. It is also likely this will be granted pending the outcome of the test case. This has happened to me. My court hearing was today. On Monday Cobbets wrote to the Court Manager asking for a stay and one of their solicitors also turned up at the hearing. The District Judge said he had no option but to grant a stay and proceedings have been suspended until 01/04/08. Don't let this put you off - it just means a longer wait for a resolution. Let us hope the OFT win.

Cool! Thanks Michael. That's great. I'll send that response to Cobbetts.

Hi anjipl. I see you replied to Cobbetts Part 18 request for info. I have just received them. Are you able to help me with this or provide a copy of your reply (taking out any private info you don't want disclosed). I need help with (1) specify all facts to support "penalty charges are irrecoverable at Common Law" (2) specify all facts to support "charges are contrary to the Unfair Terms in Consumer Regulations 1999"

Hi to everyone, I've just joined CAG. I'm taking NatWest to the County Court and have received their Defence and a Request for Further Info. Has anyone been here before that can help me with a response? If I don't respond to their solicitors by 22/05 they will apply to have my claim dismissed.