When it is implemented Solvency II will represent a positive step change in prudential regulation of insurance in the EU. Although the suggested implementation date of 2010 is not immediate, the change is becoming a reality: fundamental policy issues are being actively discussed and the European Commission continues to press for the adoption of a framework directive by July 2007.

As part of this process CEIOPS (Committee of European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Supervisors) has been consulting and advising the Commission on technical issues. One of the key issues for CEIOPS is the calibration of the requirements and CEIOPS is inviting firms to participate in a new Quantitative Impact Study (QIS2). See the Actuarial Profession's response to QIS 2.

This section of the web-site pulls together information from a number of public sources to assist actuaries that will be participating in this QIS2 exercise. It provides:

• General information on QIS2 [Updated 31 May]
• Frequently asked questions [Updated 31 May]
• Background material on Solvency II [Updated 16 May]

Solvency II is very much work-in-progress so the same will apply to this web-site. At this stage, the sections on FAQ and background material are still being developed. If you want to provide comments, ask additional questions or suggest some other background material please email Maria Singleton at maria.singleton@actuaries.org.uk.

Members of the QIS2 Support Group:

• Philip Long, Prudential, Chair
• Diana Cascardo, Deloitte 
• William Hewitson, FSA
• Alan Joynes, SwissRe
• Ian Pickering, FSA
• Alan Reed, Standard Life
• Isaac Alfon, Prudential, Project Manager