Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Rugby Football: 200th Anniversary

03 February 2023 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Mark Pawsey Con Rugby

Culture, Media & Sport

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Mark Pawsey raised concerns about rugby football: 200th anniversary in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • The MP celebrated the bicentenary of rugby football, highlighting its origins in Rugby School and William Webb Ellis's role.
  • Mark Pawsey emphasised the importance of inclusivity and charity work within rugby through initiatives like Wooden Spoon and Project Rugby.
  • The minister acknowledged the bicentenary celebration and praised rugby's positive impact on sport and culture.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Mark Pawsey Con Rugby

The MP celebrated the bicentenary of rugby football, highlighting its origins in Rugby School and William Webb Ellis's pivotal role. He discussed the game's global spread since 1823, including various forms such as union, league, and seven-a-side rugby. Mark Pawsey emphasised the importance of inclusivity and charity work within rugby through initiatives like Wooden Spoon and Project Rugby. The MP outlined upcoming bicentenary celebrations in Rugby town, including events on the close at Rugby School and a world record attempt for the largest rugby scrum.

Other contributors (1)
  • James Sunderland Con Bracknell

    Welcomed the recognition of rugby's inclusivity across all levels.

Government Response

Stuart Andrew

The Minister acknowledged the bicentenary celebration and praised rugby's positive impact on sport and culture. He highlighted government support during the pandemic, including a £600 million sports survival package and efforts to safely resume grassroots activities. The minister emphasised the importance of celebrating both union and league codes, noting events such as the Six Nations and the upcoming men’s rugby union world cup in France. He also mentioned England's successful hosting of last year's rugby league world cup and the growth of women’s rugby through full-time contracts. The Minister reaffirmed government commitment to supporting women’s sport and inclusivity, promising continued work with Rugby Football Union, Rugby Football League, and Sport England.

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