Today [21 March 2024], Robin Walker MP continued to raise the case of the Worcester Warriors Rugby Club as they continue to seek new investors for a return to professional rugby.
This follows the Government’s welcome introduction of the Football Governance Bill, which seeks to establish a club licensing system as well as ensuring a fairer distribution of revenue by organisers of football competitions.
While there continues to be support to ensure that local football clubs can continue to remain financially viable, many in rugby feel that similar support would be of great benefit for the sport.
Robin rose to speak in the chamber, asking;
“Following the introduction of the very welcome Football Governance Bill, can we have a debate in Government time about the future of Rugby Union, and how we make sure that professional in England is effectively regulated and supported?
“Clubs like the Worcester Warriors deserve their chance to come back into professional rugby, but with no certainty about the shape of next years championship and a clash between the law of administration and the RFU’s definition of Rugby creditors it is hard for investors to plan with any certainty.
“A century on from when Rugby was invented in the West Midlands, is it not a matter of concern that there might be no top-flight professional club in the West Midlands area?
The Leader of the House, Penny Mordaunt, responded saying;
“Well my honourable friend raises a very important point, and I am glad he welcomes the Football Governance Bill, and he will also know that the Government appointed independent advisors last year to work on the future stability of Rugby Union, and we will continue to work with the Rugby authorities including the Rugby Football Union, and Premiership Rugby, as well as Sport England to support Rugby in all its forms.
“I will make sure that the Secretary of State [for Culture, Media and Sport] has heard his particular concerns in this regard, and he knows how to apply for a debate.
Going forward, Robin will seek a debate during which MPs will be able to advocate for their local rugby clubs and for a more stable governance regime for the sport.