Let's have peace deal - Hopley
Damian Hopley last night pleaded for an end to the constant disagreement that has threatened to split rugby union since the game went professional in August 1995.
Today, Twickenham chiefs sit down to consider a document submitted by Premier Rugby Partnership, representing the top 12 clubs and almost 400 professional players.
The document sets out plans for PRP to take control of the professional game and organ-ise the availability of players for internationals - they suggest 10 release dates per season. They also want a share of gate money from Twickenham Tests.
Former England centre Hopley, chief executive of the Professional Rugby Players' Association, said: 'It's important we sort this out once and for all.
'We do not want to break away and create bedlam in the game. Ultimately, we need a solution, not more problems, but there has to be a degree of autonomy within the clubs to allow them to manage their own affairs.'
John Mallett, former England prop, yesterday signed a deal to stay with Bath for a further three years while Pontypridd fly half Lee Jarvis joined Neath.
