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Prudential considers moving head office overseas

Insurance firm Prudential is thought to be considering moving its headquarters out of the UK to avoid EU capital rules coming into effect in 2014.

The uncertainty is over Solvency II rules, being debated in Brussels, which industry leaders have warned could lead to pension closures, slow growth and job losses in the UK.

The rules mean European insurers have to hold extra cash reserves against subsidiaries in countries with less strict rules on reserves.

The biggest base for the firm outside London is in Hong Kong.

In a statement Prudential acknowledged the speculation and refused to rule out a move. It said: "Prudential notes recent press speculation in relation to the Group.

"Prudential regularly reviews its range of options to maximise the strategic flexibility of the Group. This includes consideration of optimising the Group's domicile, including as a possible response to an adverse outcome on Solvency II.

"There continues to be uncertainty in relation to the implementation of Solvency II and implications for the Group's businesses. Clarity on this issue is not expected in the near term."