Lichfield’s MP has warned plans to leave a city team out of the new elite Women’s Super Rugby league could breach equality laws.
The RFU’s decision to omit Lichfield Ladies, one of the country’s leading female teams, from the competition has led to a petition signed by thousands.
And now Conservative MP Michael Fabricant has written to the RFU’s chief executive Ian Ritchie to question the wisdom of the move.
“I have asked the RFU board to reconsider their decision to restrict the Women’s Super League to just 10 teams when the men’s league has 12 teams. I have asked that the Women’s Super League also be 12 which would enable Lichfield Ladies to be included.
“Most importantly, I have pointed out to Mr Ritchie in my letter that by discriminating between the men’s and ladies’ leagues it is in breach of the spirit of the Equalities Act. Indeed, it might actually be in breach of the law itself and they should take legal advice.
“In any event, having seen our ladies team play, I hope they will change their decision accordingly.”
