Tuesday 22 March 2016 13:32, UK
RFU chief executive Ian Ritchie does not believe World Rugby should sanction Joe Marler for his 'gypsy boy' slur towards Samson Lee.
Marler escaped with a reprimand from the Six Nations disciplinary committee after insulting the Wales prop during England's 25-21 win at Twickenham earlier this month.
The Harlequins prop apologised during the half-time interval and was also warned by new England coach Eddie Jones, but World Rugby have since launched a further investigation into the 25-year-old's behaviour.
Ritchie feels the issue has already been properly dealt with by the Six Nations committee, but admits he is powerless if the game's governing body decides to take retrospective action.
"Let's take some perspective and let's not deflect from what we did in terms of the Grand Slam," said Ritchie.
"As far as Joe's concerned, pretty clearly what he said was entirely inappropriate, he recognised that, he apologised very quickly and has apologised publicly since then.
"It's pretty clear that nobody made a complaint about it, and I think Samson Lee's reaction to it has been evident and he accepted the apology. Eddie and I spoke about it and when Eddie talks to someone that person is left in no doubt as to the appropriate nature of his behaviour, and that it should not be repeated.
"There was no citing officer complaint, there was no referee complaint, and the Six Nations looked at the matter fully as well, and came to a conclusion. So as far as I'm concerned that should be the end of the matter.
"If they want to look at it, they should look at it, and so be it. I don't think nothing was done, I think all of the things I've just outlined were what happened and what was done.
"Apology was offered and accepted, it was inappropriate, it was wrong, and I think that is the best way to deal with it. World Rugby may well take action and if that's the case, that's the case."
