The FA has today released a guide for clubs entitled "Money Laundering and The Proceeds of Crime Act: Guidance for Football Clubs".

The document has been prepared by the Football Regulatory Authority in response to legislation in this area and requests from clubs for guidance and it follows an extensive period of consultation within the game.

Legitimate businesses, including football clubs may unsuspectingly become involved in money laundering or handling the proceeds of crime. The Government has introduced legislation in this area that includes offences that may be committed by all persons and businesses. As a result, The FA has produced this Guidance to make clubs aware of the legislation and the steps they can take to reduce the risk of exposure.

The Guidance sets out the key areas of the legislation that clubs should be aware of and provides procedures that may be adopted to help a club to meet its legal obligations.

A copy of the Guide has been sent to all clubs from the Premier League down to the senior divisions in non-league football.

Copies of the Guide can be downloaded here

Note: The Football Regulatory Authority is a division of The FA that is responsible for the regulation of the game. It includes representatives from the professional and national games as well as independent members.