RFL welcome cup deferral

The RFL has welcomed the Coalition Government’s postponement until 2012 of a decision concerning the Listed Events Review that was initiated at the end of 2009 under the previous Government.

The decision, announced today by Hugh Robertson (The Minister for Sport and Olympics), is based on a recognition that the Digital Switchover in 2012 will change the UK’s broadcasting landscape and is reinforced by a commitment to reduce the regulation faced by broadcasters and sports bodies.

It means that the current list, which includes the Challenge Cup Final within Group A (Full Live Coverage Protected), remains in force.

The Central Council of Physical Recreation (CCPR) is also being asked to undertake a review, on behalf of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, into the viability of increasing to 30% the amount of broadcasting revenue redirected towards grassroots development by each relevant national governing body. The CCPR voluntary code currently stands at 5%. 

RFL Chief Executive Nigel Wood commented: “As a key stakeholder in this process we welcome the postponement of any decision on Listed Events until after the 2012 Digital Switchover.

“As regards to the CCPR review, Rugby League has a long and proud tradition of investing in grassroots and our commitment in this respect has always been significantly over and above the minimum expected levels

“It is entirely appropriate that this objective continues to be applied to all relevant sports and their national governing bodies and therefore we are very supportive of both recent developments.”