Swing Low song won’t be banned

THE Rugby Football Union has announced it will not be banning the singing of Swing Low, Sweet Chariot at England rugby matches.

The RFU began a review into the “historical context” of the popular song, which has roots in American slavery, earlier this summer amid the Black Lives Matter movement.

The governing body said in June it would address whether the song was appropriate as part of a wideranging and extensive review into its diversity and inclusion programme

In a new statement, the RFU said: “The RFU has stated it will not ban Swing Low, Sweet Chariot as it has a long-held place in rugby history. However, the Union will use its social media and event audiences to proactively educate fans on the history and provenance of the song as well as providing platforms for diverse voices across the game.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said the song should not be prohibited, but some former and current players have questioned its popularity.

Ex-England hooker Brian Moore said he “hated it” and current England lock Maro Itoje said it made him “uncomfortable” - but that he did not think it should be banned.

The RFU said it had reached its decision following in-depth research into how it could improve diversity and inclusion across the game.

“The RFU has conducted research with over 4,400 people from the rugby community to understand attitudes and opinions,” the governing body said.

“Research on Swing Low, Sweet Chariot concluded that 74 per cent of people, rising to 84 per cent of those from a BAME background agreeing that it is important for England Rugby to actively educate fans on the origins of Swing Low while 69 per cent of respondents said the song should not be banned.”