Tesco suspensions add to chaos at top

An internal inquiry at Tesco is being conducted by Deloitte and Freshfields
An internal inquiry at Tesco is being conducted by Deloitte and Freshfields
CHRIS RADBURN/PA

An investigation into Tesco’s £250 million accounting crisis has prompted the suspension of a further three executives, stoking concern about disruption to its preparations for the crucial Christmas shopping season.

Tesco has sent home Dan Jago, its category director for beers, wines and spirits; Sean McCurley, who is responsible for convenience food; and William Linnane, who looks after impulse purchases such as confectionery.

This brings the number of people suspended to eight since a whistleblower raised concerns about book-keeping irregularities three weeks ago. Deloitte, the accountants, and Freshfields, the law firm, are conducting an inquiry on behalf of the supermarket chain while the Financial Conduct Authority undertakes a parallel investigation.

Tesco’s shares, which have fallen by 21 per cent since the problems came to light,