At the meeting a report prepared by Eversheds LLP, The FA’s specialist legal advisors, will be considered.

To ensure the process is demonstrated to be fair and accountable to all involved, the Board has appointed external law firm Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw LLP to advise on matters arising from the report.

Understandably this is an issue which has generated huge public interest and created much speculation.

It is the Board’s role to concentrate on the facts and ensure all of the correct processes and procedure are followed. This is clearly a detailed issue. All decisions must follow standard procedures and employment law.

Those employees involved in this matter have given evidence to Eversheds LLP and will not be attending the Board meeting.

The Board may determine it appropriate to seek more evidence or refer the matter for further consideration.

It is imperative at this time that rigorous processes are followed.