Wallabies given tour option
October 5, 2001

The Wallabies will continue preparations for the upcoming tour of Europe and the United Kingdom, but players fearing for their safety won't be forced to go.

Australian Rugby Union managing director John O'Neill said the ARU had been in close contact with the Prime Minister's Department and the Foreign Affairs Department over security concerns.

"We wouldn't be imposing on the players an atmosphere that wasn't good for them and clearly wasn't good for Australian rugby," O'Neill said. "Obviously you have got to take into consideration the conscientious objector, and as long as the objection is well founded, and a very personal one, we would not impose on that player the requirement to tour."

The squad assembles in Coffs Harbour on Tuesday to prepare for the tour before leaving on October 20.

"On Friday we were encouraged by the news coming out of Canberra but in the light of events overnight we are obviously concerned," O'Neill said. "The Government has indicated that we proceed with our preparations but continue to monitor the situation on a daily basis and that's what we'll do.

"Supporters have been advised to contact the Department of Foreign affairs through its website www.dfat.gov.au if they too have concerns."

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