‘At the end of my meeting with the full Wales Squad last week I explained that what was being put to them was not a ‘take it or leave it’ proposal. I asked them to consider what was being put forward and to come back to me within a few days with their thoughts,’ explained Mr Lewis.
‘That was the reason for the meeting with Richard Harry today. He raised a few concerns and anxieties expressed by the players and we had an open and frank discussion about them.
‘However, the basic principle contained within the offer from the WRU to the players has not changed. We are seeking to move away from the system of rewarding players merely for playing and seeking to weight their payments for their achievements.
‘Success in the Test arena is the ultimate goal for everyone involved in Welsh rugby.
I have agreed to re-examine some of the payment structures within our proposed scheme, but I have strongly emphasised the point that whatever agreement we reach will not involve the overall financial pot being made any bigger.’
During the course of their discussions, Mr Harry assured Mr Lewis that at no time had the players threatened to take any form of industrial action and Mr Lewis believes those players who are selected for next week’s Wales XV game against the Barbarians, and those chosen to tour
