Although finding no evidence of illegality, Wood reported that single market rules were being interpreted in ways that favored local companies, such as in contract requirements shaped to suit a given, national supplier, or by false competition where international bids are invited when there is little intention of awarding a contract to a non-national firm.

CNN: EU governments favoring home firms

And on 16 November, it emerged that Essex Chief Constable Jim Barker-McCardie had announced his intention to step down before the end of his contract.

BBC: Suffolk Police Chief Constable Simon Ash to retire

Last month the Dutch striker, who has a year left on his contract, revealed his intention not to sign a new deal with the London club.

CNN: Spain winger Cazorla joins Arsenal from Malaga