Morecambe first club to face action from regulator

The independent football regulator has issued a warning notice to Morecambe after their owners failed to respond to requests about the running of the club.

It is the first time the IFR has taken action since the Football Governance Act passed into law a year ago.

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Morecambe directors Kuljit Singh and Harjit Singh failed to reply to two requests for information under section 65 of the Act.

"The IFR has issued a warning notice to Morecambe Football Club Limited and to the club's two owners," an IFR statement read.

"It has been provisionally determined that the owners breached information requirements imposed upon them without reasonable excuse and, in accordance with the Football Governance Act, the IFR is therefore minded to issue a censure statement against these individuals and the club."

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A censure statement gives the IFR the right to name football clubs, owners, directors or senior executives who fail to meet licensing standards.

Other powers include financial penalties, court injunctions demanding compliance and suspension or revocation of a club's operating licence.

The IFR's remit extends to clubs in the National League.

Although Morecambe were relegated to National League North last season, the IFR is able to enforce its regulations.

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Morecambe were bought out of administration last August by the Panjab Warriors consortium.

However, in March the club were placed under a transfer embargo over a disputed payment due to former owners Bond Group Investments. It was lifted by the end of the month.

In the same month Morecambe were served with a winding-up petition - over unpaid bills to suppliers - which was eventually resolved.

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