1.   Without prejudice to Article 2(3) and Article 4(2), standard forms shall be transmitted in writing.

2.   In determining the most appropriate means of communication, due account shall be taken of confidentiality considerations, the time necessary for correspondence, the volume of material to be communicated, and the ease of access to the information by the requesting competent authority or ESMA, as appropriate.

3.   Any means of communication shall ensure the completeness, integrity and confidentiality of the information subject matter of the exchange are maintained during the transmission.