UK Sport "weak" on drugs

An independent inquiry into UK Sport's anti-doping programme has identified "key weaknesses" and has recommended major changes to the organisation.

Consultants PMP believe UK Sport's drug-free sport directorate "should be reformed significantly".

Recommendations include a major shake-up of the management structure, perhaps with a separate board of directors.

The report also suggests making efforts to restore the trust and confidence of governing bodies and athletes.

The review also addressed whether there was a conflict of interest as UK Sport funds elite athletes as well as tests them for banned substances.

It concluded that the expense of setting up a completely separate anti-doping agency could not be justified and that a revamp of the current programme would work better.

Responding to the report, UK Sport chairman Sue Campbell said: "I am pleased that, on the whole, the report is positive about our work.

"However, it is clear from the report that there are lessons to be learnt and areas in which to improve."