Section OM-3.7 generally prohibits conventional bank licensees from outsourcing their internal audit function to the same firm that acts as their external auditor. However, the CBB may allow short-term outsourcing of internal audit operations to a conventional bank licensee's external auditor, to meet unexpected urgent or short-term needs (for instance, on account of staff resignation or illness). Any such arrangement will normally be limited to a maximum period of one year and is subject to the CBB prior approval.