When can shareholders request an investigation by a BEIS inspector?

Shareholders can request an investigation by a BEIS (Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy) inspector when a simple majority resolution is passed. This means that if more than 50% of the votes cast support the request for an investigation, shareholders have the authority to trigger this action.

This process is in place to ensure that shareholders can hold companies accountable and investigate matters of serious concern, such as misconduct or illegal activities within the company. The provision allows for a significant level of shareholder participation and reflects the democratic nature of corporate governance.

The other options suggest higher thresholds for requesting an investigation, which are not aligned with the regulations governing shareholder rights. For instance, requiring a 75% agreement would create a barrier that could prevent necessary investigations in cases where a majority, but not a supermajority, believes action should be taken. Similarly, the other options do not align with the established rules regarding the necessary shareholder backing for such requests.