⁦WPP⁩ AGM about to start..key votes on pay report amid #Sorrell award backlash and chairman’s re-election

Chairman Roberto Quarta tells WPP AGM that data protection law prevents firm from disclosing more on misconduct allegation faced by #Sorrell (who denies any wrongdoing)

Quarta says #Sorrell awards over next five years (up to almost £20m) was part of his contract. “I appreciate some will find this unsatisfactory” he says

Quarta says can’t comment on additional claims by FT this week concerning #Sorrell behaviour towards employees ( denied by Sorrell) but says firm treats all with respect

Quarta says search for new CEO to succeed #Sorrell is “ moving rapidly ahead”and focus is firmly on future

Proxy votes show 27% of investors voted against WPP pay report - almost 30% when abstentions included. #Sorrell

Joint chief operating officer Mark Read tells AGM firm must build “inclusive culture”

Quarta responds to question on #Sorrell directly competing with WPP as being a reason for no future awards by saying Martin has said he has “ no intention of competing”. Martin would not want to jeopardise confidentiality agreements, he adds

Retail investor Paul Walker says disappointing that Sir Martin Sorrell got no tribute at the top of the meeting

Mark Read says WPP can succeed without Martin Sorrell but it must simplify the way it works and be more client centric with a culture that works for workforce - firm in transition phase

John Marshall, retail investor, asks Quarta if he can devote enough time to his chairmanship of Smith & Nephew..WPP Board said to have agreed it was “comfortable” with these dual roles.

Quarta defends succession planning ahead of shock departure of Sir Martin.

🚨 The Sky News business desk is looking for freelance reporters who have a track record of breaking, writing and producing financial, economic and consumer stories for a mainstream online audience. If you're interested in joining our team please DM or email me for more info.

ONS: UK second quarter GDP figure revised to -0.5% from 0.7% contraction.

Hello to Maria '5 jobs' Miller: new Culture, Media and Sport Secretary and Minister for Women and Equalities. I'm knackered already!

Should the winner of France v England get their AAA status restored?!

Journalism is not a Crime. #FreeAJStaff

Learning more about tweetdeck

Cheering on Noel Tabatabai with bottle of red and champers on ice. Whoop! #dunhilllinks #maidenwin