This statement from The National League and comes after several clubs were told they face charges for not playing games without a reasonable excuse such as Covid or weather problems.
'Many things have been written regarding charges recently raised in connection for non-fulfilment of fixtures under League Rules.
It may be helpful to explain that this process is merely a mechanism for the League to deal with each of the occasions for non-fulfilment. No fines or sanctions have been raised or recommended and this will be considered at the next stage.
An Independent Panel will be appointed to hear each case and it will be at this stage the issue of “just cause” as outlined in the rule will be objectively assessed in each case based on the evidence before them.
In the interest of fairness of all parties, the cases will not be heard until such time as the outcome of the resolutions are known.
It is important that the framework in place is followed in a consistent manner in all cases and Clubs are able to make their representations appropriately and fairly.
The League will not make any comment during the process on individual cases in fairness to all Clubs but will issue the outcomes and reasons for the decisions following their conclusions.
Should Clubs remain unsatisfied with the outcome they will also all have the opportunity to appeal the decision directly to The Football Association which will be heard by a further Independent Panel in line with The FA Rules and Regulations.'