Halifax investigate after Ed Barber tweet on coronavirus lockdown

Halifax have launched a club investigation after complaints following a tweet made by back-rower Ed Barber on Thursday night.

It comes after both club and player received communication from the RFL asking for an explanation over his comments, before deciding whether to launch an investigation of their own.

In response to a story about the revised lockdown rules in Greater Manchester, East Lancashire and parts of West Yorkshire, Barber tweeted: “All these places which are all back in lockdown, what are they full of?”

Barber’s comments, since removed, were challenged by several on social media, including England international Jermaine McGillvary.

In a statement, Halifax said: “The Club is aware of a tweet made by one of its employees, that has subsequently been withdrawn and clarified by that individual.

“This matter is now being addressed via the Clubs internal investigation procedures. No further comment will be made at this time.”

It comes on the same day that the RFL published details of a new commitment to inclusion, diversity and anti-discrimination within the game.

The vision includes four strategic goals to widen the reach and impact of rugby league, diversify the sport’s talent pool, improve its culture and clarify and encourage the reporting of discrimination.