Career goes for Burton

Press, 28 October 1981, Page 48

Career goes for Burton

NZPA London Mike Burton, a former England prop, has been formally banned from participation in rugby after receiving money for his autobiography. Burton has admitted to receiving advance payment for his book “Never Stay Down,” due for publication in the new year. Burton’s claim that he has been outlawed because his nfiw book contains facts that the English Rugby Union do not like, was refuted by Mr Bob Weighill, the secretary of the rugby union.

Burton was allowed to retain his amateur status after an earlier book.

Mr Weighill said: “Burton gave his word a year ago that the proceeds from his first book, were not going to be retained by him. This time he has told us that he has received, and intends to keep, payment in advance, which International Rugby Board regulations forbid.”

Burton’s second book reveals that he accepted money from a sports-goods manufacturer for wearing its products — also illegal — a practice he says is common at international level.

Mr Weighill states: “I have not even read his book and he has not been banned for anything he says about his former activities.” In contrast, two of Burton’s colleagues in the England pack during his international career — Roger Uttley and Fran Cotton — can continue in rugby union after writing books. Uttley, whose “Pride in England” is published today, and Cotton, author of “Fran,” due out next month, have assured Twickenham that the money they receive will be donated to the union.