MP Demands Parliamentary Scrutiny of Premiership Rugby's Franchise Plans
Liberal Democrat MP Edward Morello has called for the government to subject Premiership Rugby's franchise proposals to rigorous parliamentary scrutiny, arguing that the potential overhaul represents the most significant change to the domestic game since professionalisation.
Financial Concerns and Government Responsibility
Speaking exclusively to City AM, Morello acknowledged that Premiership Rugby "is an exciting competition" but expressed serious concerns about its financial sustainability. "The finances continue not to stack up," he stated bluntly, pointing to recent accounts from top-flight clubs like Exeter Chiefs and Sale Sharks that reveal losses running into millions.
While welcoming the new financial scrutiny regime introduced by Premiership owners, Morello challenged the government's position that rugby's governance is purely a matter for the Rugby Football Union. "The government's insistence that such a hugely popular national pastime is none of its responsibility does not fly with me," he declared.
Protecting Community Connections
The MP, whose constituency neighbours the for-sale Exeter Chiefs, emphasised that any future model must maintain vital links with local communities and grassroots rugby. "When public money is being used to support the game and expand participation, it is right that Parliament scrutinises any proposals to make sure they deliver for every level of the game," Morello explained.
He added passionately: "For the sake of the game I love, I want to ensure that clubs at all levels can succeed and flourish."
Project Forge and Financial Realities
The intervention comes as a review into English rugby's top two tiers, understood to be dubbed "Project Forge," prepares to deliver findings before crucial RFU Council votes next month. Franchising and ringfencing of Premiership Rugby are expected to be central discussion points.
Financial analysis supports Morello's concerns. Last year's Leonard Curtis Rugby Finance Report revealed that the ten Premiership clubs registered combined debts of £340 million during the 2023/24 season. Professor Rob Wilson commented to City AM: "The Leonard Curtis report paints a clear picture of a league still struggling to achieve financial stability. Despite record revenues and some signs of recovery, Premiership Rugby remains heavily dependent on owner financing."
Government Response and Broader Context
A Department for Culture, Media and Sport spokesperson responded: "The governance of rugby union is rightly a matter for the RFU as the independent national governing body, but the Government takes the sustainability of the sport seriously. The sports minister has met with the RFU and Premiership Rugby and continues to engage closely with clubs at all levels to support the sport's long-term future."
The debate occurs against a backdrop where DCMS faces accusations of "passing the buck" regarding Covid loans to English professional rugby, adding another layer to the financial scrutiny conversation surrounding the sport's future direction.
