But FDR and PRL say that under the deal finally agreed between the clubs and the RFU earlier this year, following years of in-fighting in English rugby union, it is up to the organisation representing the Division One clubs to make any proposals concerning their future.

BBC: Championship plan gains support

English clubs do not have an agreement with the Welsh Rugby Union over player release outside of designated windows.

BBC: Wales scrum-half Dwayne Peel signs new Sale contract

England are playing New Zealand on Sunday, but were only able to have their players available after the Rugby Football Union agreed a compensation package with the English clubs.

BBC: Millennium Stadium, Cardiff

The concept of a combined touring Lions side began in 1891 when a group of English and Scottish players took part in a three-Test series against South Africa under the auspices of the Rugby Football Union.

CNN: Welsh star Warburton to lead Lions but Wilkinson is left out