England chief warns row may hit World Cup preparations
The RFU and PRL, the umbrella body for the 12 Guinness Premiership clubs, are locked in a bitter power struggle over the divisive issue of elite player management - who controls the England stars and when.
An interim agreement has been reached for training days covering the autumn internationals but nothing beyond November 30, which means England head coach Andy Robinson cannot plan for either the Six Nations or the forthcoming World Cup.
And Baron pulled no punches as he warned Premier Rugby any further delay will directly affect England’s chances of success at France 2007.
“In planning terms we are in the 11th hour,” said Baron. “It takes two years to develop a successful team - we only have two years left.
“This is a very serious matter. If we don’t reach an agreement in the next couple of weeks we are putting in jeopardy our ability to compete to a level the country expects of us at the World Cup.
“We know what it takes and we are very concerned. We need every month to properly prepare a team and do everything else that is needed for a successful campaign.
“We are very keen to negotiate a package that works for everybody. We see this as the best way forward. We are aiming to reach an agreement by the end of November.
“The clubs are as passionate as we are for England to do well. We believe the clubs want to support Andy Robinson in the next World Cup so I remain optimistic we will thrash out a deal.”
While the RFU are anxious to see an agreement it is equally important to them the wound is properly addressed and not simply plastered over and allowed to fester for another year.
The two organisations exchanged proposal documents last week, which led to claims the RFU plan to impose central contracts and buy controlling stakes in Premiership clubs.
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