Perran Moon

It is a delicate one, because the governance of English rugby sits largely with the RFU, outside of the Premiership. I am not sure that it is the role of national Government to intervene in areas such as this, if we have competent governance at the top of the RFU. I completely accept the hon. Member’s point—it is a delicate one, but it is a problem that was created at the top of the English game, and it is there that it should be fixed. I ask the Minister if she agrees with me on three separate areas. First, does she agree that the RFU board should have increased representation from the grassroots game, and that changes to that should be made as soon as possible so that it more closely represents its core membership? Secondly, there is an entry on regular match cards for concussion data to be collected: it should be mandatory for three seasons for it to be completed, so that we can gather the information we need to make a reasoned judgment on whether we have a tackle-height problem. Until we do that, it is my view that we are failing in our duty of care to players, as revisions to the tackle-height law may be required. Thirdly, an immediate review should be undertaken of the implementation and impact of the covid loan fiasco, with a view to an emergency package of support being made available to championship clubs. Additionally, a multi-year funding pot should be made available to RFU-registered clubs below the top two tiers of English rugby. That should be reviewed annually, and its objective should be to support grassroots clubs in planning and developing their clubs for the long term, rather than the current crumbs from the captain’s table approach with ad-hoc funding plans. Those of us who love the game across the political spectrum cannot hope to protect our game for the long term, ensure that our grassroots clubs remain at the heart of our communities, and support youngsters coming into the game, without profound and urgent change. I look forward to hearing the views and experiences of other Members here today.