Prime Minister Andy Burnham sends warning over Man City 'guilty' verdict

· Mirror

Manchester City have reportedly been found guilty of 114 of the 115 Premier League charges levelled at them and the UK Government has now had its say on the fallout

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has urged people not to ‘jump to conclusions’ when it comes to Manchester City’s landmark verdict. It has been suggested that the eight-time champions have been found guilty of 114 of the 115 Premier League charges levelled against them.

No punishment has been forthcoming as of yet, while an official statement on the result of the independent commission has yet to be released.

UK Prime Minister Burnham has now spoken out after the apparent ‘guilty’ verdict and has warned people not to get too far ahead of themselves - not until the official verdict is returned at least.

He said: “I’ve only just been made aware of it – I think these are reports at this stage. But if they’re confirmed, obviously I will want to look at the report of the independent commission.

> “People shouldn’t jump to those kind of conclusions (about City having their titles taken off them). I know, this has been a long process between the club and the Premier League. I think quite a contested process.

> “So I don’t think it’s as simple as jumping to conclusions. I think we would all need to study the independent commission’s report in some considerable detail before reaching any conclusions.”

The Prime Minister is not the only Government voice to have spoken out in the aftermath of the supposed guilty verdict. Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee chair Caroline Dinenage MP has given her response.

A statement read: "The reports about the Premier League's findings against Manchester City FC have profound implications for our national game.

> “The extraordinary length and cost of this process raise serious concerns, and the affair again gives rise to questions about financial fairness across the football pyramid.

> “The matter must be allowed to take its course and due process must be followed, but I sincerely hope any further stages are completed as swiftly as is reasonably possible.”

Elsewhere, City have also reacted by claiming that the process has not come to a conclusion yet.

A statement read: “The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements to be completed, and subject to strict confidentiality. As such Manchester City FC’s position remains consistent with the club’s statement of February 2023.

> “The club has diligently respected due process for eight years on the basis the Premier League board and executive would behave as an independent, impartial and fair minded regulator, free from partisan influence.”

Read the original

Related