The application by London Welsh for their first XV to play in Welsh League Division 2 for the 2000/01 season has been declined following yesterday’s meeting of the RFU Management Board

The Management Board’s decision to decline the application was based on a number of factors, in particular, the lateness of the application by London Welsh and the impact this would have on the league structure at such a late stage.

Other considerations taken into account by the Board were the necessity to maintain meaningful fixtures for London Welsh’s lower and junior XV’s.

The Chairman of the Management Board, Brian Baister said, ‘We regret the lateness of this application. In the circumstances we reluctantly voted against the proposal on the basis that London Welsh are invited to meet with the RFU to consider their position for season 2001/02 onwards.

For further information please contact the RFU Press Office:
Martin Johnston, Press Officer, martinjohnston@rfu.com
Tel: +44 181 892 2000
Fax: +44 181 892 9816
Website: http://www.rfu.com