That's a variation since the rules were first drawn up I believe. The interpretation of the change that I read suggested it was because the League knew they'd have a difficult time making the fines stick. By giving the money to charity, they'd be able to paint any club that didn't pay up in a...
It does put Poyet's 'hit the ceiling' comments in perspective. Doesn't make them any more excusable though. Pathetic paddy really when all the club had decided was to live within its means.