Two clubs will almost certainly be relegated from the Football League every year from next season after the Football Association threw its weight behind the move.
The change will see two clubs rather than just one win promotion from the Conference, and the FA is expected to participate in financial help for both relegated and promoted clubs.
York City chairman Douglas Craig has previously given the concept of two-up, two-down his backing.
However, he has always maintained the issue of compensation or 'parachute payments' for the clubs' relegated from Division Three remained a stumbling block.
The 72 chairmen of non-Premiership clubs, including Craig, will vote on the issue at the League's annual general meeting, which is taking place next week from June 7-9.
The League's board has already backed the move in principle, and it would need a significant rebellion for the move to be defeated.
It needs the backing of 50 per cent of the league chairmen, and 50 per cent of the First Division chairmen.
A statement from the FA read: "The FA Board have confirmed their support for an increase in the number of promotion and relegation places between the Football Conference and the Football League.
"The FA is fully behind the Football Conference's proposal to the Football League and will work to ensure that no League team is disadvantaged.
"In addition, the FA will support the Conference in its efforts to help its clubs compete in the League."
Updated: 11:41 Friday, June 01, 2001
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