The purpose of this book is to introduce NEDs and would-be NEDs to what we consider to be the key issues for any individual taking up this role. It deals with matters to be considered before accepting an appointment and on leaving the company (to a lesser extent), as well as the role of the NED during his term of office. This book includes chapters on independence, the role of the board and the balance of power, the nomination committee, directors' and officers' liability insurance, the remuneration committee, the audit committee, the review of internal control and risk management and performance management. (Other chapters give a brief history of corporate governance and deal briefly with investor relations and corporate social responsibility.) This book includes the most recent (2006) version of the Combined Code as an appendix.