RUGBY CONFERENCE.

Hawera Star, Volume XLVIII, 20 January 1925, Page 9

RUGBY CONFERENCE.

ADVISORY BOARD SET UP

(BY TELEGRAPH —PRESS ASSOCIATION. WELLINGTON, Jan. 19.

An informal report was received today from Air. S. F. Wilson, who, with Mr. ,S. S. Dean, represented New Zealand at the imperial Rugby toinerence, which was held in non don last month. The report shows that the New Zealand delegates have done very good work, and that a. good deal oi ground has been covered. The most important result is the setting up of an Imperial advisory board, consisting of one representative from each of the following Rugtiy countries: England, Scotland, \\ axes, Ireland, South Africa, New South Wales, and New Zealand. The constitution of that body was to be drafted by the two New. Zealand delegates. It is anticipated that the committee will gain power, and in time will control the laws of the game. Dominion representation on the existing international board is not likely, as that body’s work is more concerned with the Home' countries.

With regard to alterations to the laws of the game, as proposed by New Zealand and New South Wales, no definite decisions were made, the delegates not being asked to vote oil' tinvarious questions placed before the conference. It is reported, however, that the kick into touch rule, as played here, was very favourably received, and it seems almost certain that the five yards throw-in from touch will become universal in the near future.

Air. Wilson lias been doing a great deal of propaganda work in Wales. He lectured to an audience of over 600 people, including many of high rank ii. Rugby. He is of the opinion that the English Rugby Union now understands New Zealand’s viewpoint. Through Air. Wilson an international conference of Rugby referees was arranged for January 2, and it was expected that, as a result of this, referees of the various countries would become better acquainted with one another, the intention being to arrange for corresponding freely on matters relating to the control of the game.