Calls to Honour National Rugby team

4.58.47pm GMT Mon 24th Nov 2003

Following the triumph of the English rugby team in Australia, the local MP Vincent Cable has written to the Mayor to suggest that, in addition to the national celebrations which are planned, there should also be a local reception for the team in Twickenham.

"There is a strong sense of provide, not just amongst rugby supporters in the achievement of the team. We should honour them locally as well as nationally. There have been, and will no doubt continue to be, arguments with the RFU about the use and development of the ground; but it is an occasion when the differences can be set aside and we can all express a thanks to the team."

"On a personal level I was delighted to see that the English try was scored by Jason Robinson. As someone who was brought up with northern Rugby League I always regretted the bitter divisions between the codes which have now been totally healed with a league player representing England at rugby union and contributing greatly to its success".