ENGLAND'S RUGBY WORLD CUP TRIUMPH

Early day motion 1, tabled 26 November 2003 by Bob Russell (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 79 members.

That this House congratulates the England rugby team for winning the Rugby World Cup; recognises that this was very much a team effort both on and off the pitch, the result of considerable preparation by all involved over several years; applauds all players for their commitment, passion, courage and style; welcomes the approval which they have generated in the eyes of the public for being worthy ambassadors both of rugby in particular and professional sport in general; pays tribute to coach Clive Woodward and captain Martin Johnson for their dedication and leadership; congratulates ace points scorer Jonny Wilkinson for being named the outstanding player of the tournament; and looks forward to seeing regular repeats on television of his winning drop goal in the closing seconds of extra time int he final to secure a well-deserved 20-17 points win over Australia in one of the greatest games of rugby ever played.

Signatures by party: Labour 39, Liberal Democrat 19, Conservative 10, Labour/Co-operative 7, DUP 2, Independent Ulster Unionist 1, UUP 1.