MPs to hold 'inquiry' into collapse of Worcester Warriors and Wasps
The meeting takes place today at the House of Commons Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee.
MPs will question rugby's governing bodies today, following the financial collapse of Premiership sides Worcester Warriors and Wasps.
The meeting with the Commons Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Commitee will see bosses from Premiership Rugby and the Rugby Football Union come together to give evidence.
As well as discussing how the two clubs ended up in administration, the group is expected to talk about the need for more financial oversight of the game and clubs, to prevent future situations like those seen in the Midlands.
Those expected to take part in the discussions include Robin Walker Conservative MP for Worcester, Carol Hart, Chief Executive of Worcester Warriors Foundation, Bill Sweeney OBE, Chief Executive of the Rugby Football Union, Simon Massie-Taylor, Chief Executive of Premiership Rugby Limited and Judith Batchelar OBE, Chief Executive of the Rugby Players Association.
The Committee is likely to ask whether English rugby should adopt the more transparent model used by the French leagues.
The RFU’s regulation of ownership may also be considered. At the time of its collapse, Worcester Warriors was partially owned by Colin Goldring, who was previously sanctioned by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.
MPs may also examine the likelihood of Wasps and Worcester Warriors returning to the Premiership and whether the clubs will retain their “P” shares in the league.
Today's meeting comes just weeks after both Worcester Warriors and Wasps entered administration and were suspended from all competitions.
Worcester’s debts totalled over £25 million, while the Wasps Group was over £100 million in debt when administrators were appointed.
A consortium led by former Warriors chief executive Jim O'Toole has been chosen as the preferred bidder to save Worcester. Meanwhile, administrators for Wasps have accepted an offer from a group of Wasps Legends.