Source · Select Committees · Culture, Media and Sport Committee
Recommendation 4
4
Acknowledged
We await the publication of the RFU annual report.
Recommendation
We await the publication of the RFU annual report. We recommend that when the annual report is published, the RFU writes to us with a detailed commentary of its financial position and what steps it will be taking to prevent further clubs collapsing, with consequent damage done to players, staff and local communities. (Paragraph 14) 8 Current issues in rugby union
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the RFU's Annual Report and is in close communication with the PRL and RFU on financial and governance issues, welcoming governance reforms including stronger financial regulations. They did not commit to ensuring the RFU writes to the committee with commentary.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government has also noted the RFU’s Annual Report for 2021-22, published after the Committee’s report. The Government is in close communication with the PRL and the RFU on their plans to manage the immediate financial and governance issues facing the sport and their longer term plans for sustainability in professional rugby. The rugby authorities recognise the need for action on financial sustainability, and I welcome the changes to governance procedures aimed at avoiding a repeat of the current situation that are to be introduced. We have been clear that we expect to see governance reforms that include stronger financial regulations and Owners’ and Directors’ Tests. We believe there to be the willingness from the rugby authorities to do so.