We then received a short presentation on the work undertaken by the Rugby Football Referees Union Task Group on Match Official Abuse. Whilst conclusions have been drawn and some Federations want to put its recommendations into practice immediately, it was considered expedient to wait for the RFU Council to approve. This is because the Societies have different standing in Rugby, some being Sub-Committees of the Constituent Body, whilst others are independent of the CBs.
Alan Hughes got in on the act again and together with Paul Renton presented the Law changes, variations and priorities for the Season 2003-4, including an update on the recently developed Pathway for Referee Coaching.
Finally proceedings were brought to a close by Malcolm Shorney with a short question and answer session.
Thanks on another excellent day are due to Paul Renton on his first conference, to John Richardson and his T&D working Party and the syndicate leaders for their hard work and to Blaydon RFC for their hosting this conference and supplying a tasty buffet lunch.