Scotland's top 10 clubs yesterday issued a legally-binding document to their lower league counterparts promising an expanded breakaway league of at least 12 clubs from season 2000-2001.

They have also guaranteed the clubs from Divisions One, Two and Three a financial support package estimated at £1.7 million a season in an attempt to underline their on-going commitment to the country's smaller clubs. In addition, the breakaway group have promised a £250,000 payment to this year's First Division runners-up as compensation for the loss of a play-off place. The document will be voted on at a special general meeting of all Scottish League clubs at Hampden Park tomorrow.