Bristol Rugby Club

EDM number 1162 in 2002-03, proposed by Valerie Davey on 08/05/2003.

That this House views with concern the proposed merger between Bristol and Bath rugby clubs, and opposes any proposal that will end the history of either club and their individual role within the life of their communities; notes that both clubs have long and distinguished histories and, given the importance of rugby union in the West of England, have made a valuable and ongoing contribution to the region's cultural heritage; recognises the contribution both clubs make to their communities, encouraging sporting participation at every level, and acting as a focus for local pride and identity; asks those who currently own the clubs to do all that they can to secure their independent identities for the future, and for the Rugby Football Union to refuse to sanction such a merger, or any move of these clubs from the communities that they represent; and calls on the Rugby Football Union to work towards a sustainable and stable future for rugby union that will make unnecessary further disruption to the sporting fabric of local communities.

This motion has been signed by a total of 13 MPs.