Names on the short-list are confidential and I cannot comment at this stage.

I only comment at this stage that the latter exclusion would render the remedy of little practical use.

As such we feel that it is inappropriate for us to comment further at this stage.

"I think it would be unwise to comment at this stage of the investigation on contacts we've made with any person or entity," Mitchell said.

The police say they can't comment at this stage.

Ian Ross, finance director, said: 'It is difficult to comment at this stage, because management have an interest.

A spokesman for Astra said he did not wish to comment at this stage.

"Inquiries are ongoing and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage."

Essex County Cricket Club declined to comment on Westfield's case at this stage.

Dollar Bill looked suitably impressed, but felt it would be unwise to comment at this stage.