THE second tier of English rugby is seeking a vote of no confidence in Rugby Football Union chief executive Bill Sweeney in an escalation of the pay scandal gripping Twickenham.

The 12 Championship clubs have written to RFU president Rob Udwin requesting a special general meeting (SGM) to debate the leadership of Sweeney and chairman Tom Ilube.

The move comes following an outcry over Sweeney’s £1.1 million pay for the 2023-24 financial year, which comprises an increased salary of £742,000 and bonus of £358,000.