In 2009 there were more directors disqualified than in the previous three years. In the same year, the number of disqualification cases launched against executives of insolvent companies over fraud and theft allegations rose by 75%. And as more companies go to the wall, it is likely more directors will face disqualification as their failed ventures come under financial scrutiny.

But while director disqualifications are rising, the number of directors who contest their disqualification is not. While 2008-09 saw 1,517 directors disqualified, only 20% of those cases were contested.