10A

Subject to subsection (10C), the Authority shall, following consideration of any representations or objections under subsection (9), give the Secretary of State not less than 28 days’ notice of any proposal to give consent to the transfer of the whole or any part of a smart meter communication licence.

10B

If, before the expiry of the time specified in a notice under subsection (10A), the Secretary of State directs the Authority not to give consent, the Authority shall comply with that direction.

10C

Where the Secretary of State does not give a direction under subsection (10B), the Authority may give consent to the transfer of the licence after—

a

the expiry of the time specified in the notice under subsection (10A); or

b

if earlier than the time in paragraph (a), the time at which the Secretary of State informs the Authority that no direction will be given under subsection (10B) in relation to the notice.

10D

Subsections (10A) to (10C) do not apply after 1 November 2018.

11A

A smart meter communication licence may not be transferred to a person unless a licence granted under section 7AB of the Gas Act 1986 is also transferred to the same person at the same time.