(b) in order to verify whether the presumed irregularities, fraud  or breach of obligations have actually occurred. 

The contracting authority must formally notify the contractor of the suspension and the reasons for it. Suspension takes effect on the date of formal notification , or at a later date if the formal notification  so provides. 

The contracting authority must notify  the contractor as soon as the verification is completed whether: 

(a) it is lifting the suspension; or 

(b) it intends to terminate the contract under Article II.18.1(f) or (j). 

The contractor is not entitled to compensation for suspension of any part of the contract. 

The contracting authority may in addition suspend the time allowed for payments in accordance with Article II.21.7. 

## II.18.1. Grounds for termination by the contracting authority 

## II.18. TERMINATION OF THE CONTRACT 

The contracting authority may terminate the contract in the following circumstances: 

(a) if provision of the services under the contract has not actually started within 15 days of the scheduled date and the contracting authority considers that the new date proposed, if any, unacceptable, taking into account Article II.11.2; 

(b) if the contractor is unable, through its own fault, to obtain any permit or licence required for performance of the contract ; 

(c) if the contractor does not perform the contract in accordance with the tender specifications or is in breach of another substantial contractual obligation. 

(d) if the contractor or any person that assumes unlimited liability for the debts of the contractor is in one of the situations provided for in points (a) and (b) of Article 136(1) of the Financial Regulation$^{8}$; 

(e) if the contractor or any related person  is in one of the situations provided for in points (c) to (h) of Article 136(1) or to Article 136(2) of the Financial Regulation. 

(f) if the procedure for awarding the contract or the performance of the contract  prove to have been subject to irregularities, fraud or breach of obligations ; 

(g) if the contractor does not comply with applicable obligations under environmental, social and labour law established by Union law, national law, collective agreements or 

