When is there a conflict of interest? Could an expert provide a report about a person who they have met previously?
If you believe that there is or might be a conflict of interest, let the Commission know immediately. Meeting the person in a professional setting, (e.g. at a conference) does not necessarily preclude you from providing an objective report. If you feel you cannot provide an objective report, or believe that a reasonable person would consider that there is a conflict of interest, you should not provide a report.